According to an update from the Walworth County Department of Health and Human Services, on July 15 the Wisconsin Department of Health Services identified the first confirmed case of orthopoxvirus, presumed to be monkeypox, in a resident of Walworth County. The patient is currently isolating and the risk remains low for the general public. Department of Health Services, federal, state, and local partners are working closely together to investigate and monitor the current monkeypox outbreak.
Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is typically characterized by a new, unexplained rash and skin lesions. Other early symptoms of monkeypox include fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Recently identified cases have developed skin lesions in the genital, groin, and anal regions that might be confused with rashes caused by common diseases such as herpes and syphilis. Most people with monkeypox recover in two to four weeks without needing treatment. However, vaccinations and antiviral medications can be used to prevent and treat monkeypox. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets, sustained skin-to-skin contact, and contact with items that have been contaminated with the fluids or sores of a person with monkeypox. Anyone can develop and spread this disease after being exposed to the virus.
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