The Bradt County Health Unit (BCHU) says it has received laboratory confirmation of the case and has contacted the resident to begin case management to identify close contacts. At this time, BCHU said, the case is of low risk to the general public and it will continue to monitor the situation, providing updates to the community as they become available. Monkeypox Immunization Clinics will be offered by BCHU soon, with more information on dates and eligibility to be posted at Website.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include:

Fever. A headache. Swollen lymph nodes. Low energy. Muscle pains. Skin rash, usually on the face, palms and soles, or lesions

The number of days between infection and the onset of symptoms is usually six to 13, but can be up to three weeks. The lesions, which can range from a few to thousands, may be flat or slightly raised with clear or yellowish fluid before crusting over and falling off like chickenpox. Most people experience only mild symptoms, but children and people who are pregnant or immunocompromised have a higher risk of worsening symptoms. The fatality rate of monkeypox is about one percent, according to Hamilton Public Health.

How does monkeypox spread?

Monkeypox is caused by a virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. The genus also includes the variola virus (which causes smallpox) and the vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine). Hamilton Public Health said the monkeypox virus does not spread easily between humans. It can spread through close contact, including airborne respiratory droplets, skin-to-skin contact, or if someone touches contaminated surfaces such as clothing or bedding. Spread can also occur through bites or scratches from infected animals. Close contacts should monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days after their most recent exposure. A person can be contagious for five days before the rash appears and until new skin forms over the cleared rash.

How do you deal with it?

There are no specific treatments for monkeypox virus infections. The symptoms go away on their own, in two weeks to a month. People who have been exposed to monkeypox can get the Imvammune smallpox vaccine, which can prevent infection or reduce the severity of symptoms. Last week, the city hosted a pop-up vaccine clinic for at-risk community members, which was by appointment only. More than 60 doses were administered. Hamilton Public Health said other ways to avoid infection include physical distancing, hand washing and wearing a mask.