The Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington Public Health unit released few details about the first laboratory-confirmed case of monkeypox, saying only that contact tracing efforts have been completed and health officials are monitoring the person. “Monkeypox virus has been circulating in the province for a few months and we expected it to reach the KFL&A area. There is no increased risk to KFL&A residents from this case,” said medical officer of health Dr. Piotr Oglaza said. “In general, monkeypox does not spread easily between humans. KFLA residents should not be concerned about their daily activities in the community. We recommend that people be aware of the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.” Symptoms of monkeypox can appear within five to 21 days of exposure to someone who has the virus. Symptoms may include:
Rash or blisters in the mouth and around the genital areas Swollen lymph nodes Fever and chills Muscle pains Headaches Exhaustion
There have been 11 confirmed cases of smallpox in Ottawa.
