BOISE, ID — Mpox returns to Idaho and health officials stress the importance of getting vaccinated.
According to a Thursday press release, the Idaho Department of Public Health and the Central District Health Department announced the first two people diagnosed with mpox have been reported in Idaho since last year. They say the investigation is ongoing, but both men reported traveling out of state, which could be related to the diagnosis.
Both people diagnosed are Ada County residents. There is currently no evidence of ongoing mpox transmission across the state of Idaho.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by a virus that can be spread through prolonged direct contact with someone infected with Mpox. Although very rare, it is possible to come into contact with bedding or towels contaminated with the virus.
Mpox infections usually cause a rash that looks like acne at first and then blisters. These can occur all over the body or in specific areas such as the face, hands, or feet. Other areas to check include the inside of the mouth, genitals, and anus.
For some people, symptoms are similar to the flu, including a sore throat, runny nose, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and headaches. A person with mpox may have all the symptoms or only a few.
People with MPO can spread the infection to others from the time symptoms begin until the rash completely heals.
People who have been in contact with someone infected with mpox should monitor for symptoms for 21 days and get vaccinated against mpox as soon as possible, if unvaccinated, within 4 days and up to 14 days after exposure. there is.
The mpox vaccine JYNNEOS may help prevent mpox and reduce symptoms. For maximum protection, two shots must be given 4 weeks apart.
“Since the first outbreaks in the United States, we have gained more knowledge and tools that we can use to reduce the impact of this virus,” said Sara Wright, an epidemiologist with the Central District Health Staff. Stated.
“One of them is the M.P.O.X vaccine. This is a preventative measure that has been shown to reduce symptoms in people who have contracted M.P.O.X. If you are interested in this vaccine, please contact your health care provider or the Central District Please consult your health provider,” Wright said. .
Find an mpox vaccine site near you using the mpox vaccine locator here.
For more information about mpox and mpox vaccines, visit the CDC website.
For more information on other ways to lower your risk of mpox, see this CDC article.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is committed to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. For more information, visit healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.
CDH (Public Health District IV) is one of seven public health districts in the state of Idaho, serving Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley counties.
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