Since 2020, a majority of the world has been in a constant state of alert over disease. It all started with Sars-Cov-2, the virus that is believed to have brought on Covid-19. On Friday, March 13, 2020, President Donald Trump declared a state of emergency for Covid-19, and many things have not been the same since. It wasn’t just the United States that was gripped by Covid-19, of course; it was the entire world. While things do seem like they’re slowly getting back to a post-pandemic normal, there is a new viral disease slowly emerging, causing new alarm to many. Yes, we’re talking about monkeypox. Keep reading for more information about monkeypox cases in Nebraska and what you should know about the rare virus.
Are There Cases of Monkeypox in Nebraska?
Monkeypox Cases in Nebraska
As of August 31, 2022, 26 cases of monkeypox have been reported in Nebraska. The majority of the cases were in Douglas County (22 reported cases – via Douglas County Health).
In late July, the WHO declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern, and on August 4, 2022, the White House declared monkeypox a public health emergency. At this time, there were over 22,000 reported cases of monkeypox globally, and more than 6,600 cases in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (CDC 2022 U.S. Map & Case Count)
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare virus that causes a rash that can look similar to chickenpox (varicella), herpes simplex virus, molluscum, allergic skin rashes, as well as hand, foot, and mouth disease caused by enteroviruses. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses that causes smallpox (variola virus). Although symptoms of monkeypox are similar to smallpox symptoms, the monkeypox virus fatality rate is minimal.
Monkeypox is a self-limiting illness (similar to chickenpox). In fact, the virus is very difficult to get, and it only seems to be affecting a certain subset of the population. Currently, monkeypox cases are being diagnosed with a PCR test, the same test that has been used to diagnose Covid-19.
Signs and Symptoms
It’s important to note that there is no reason to panic over monkeypox. Yes, there are sure to be more monkeypox cases reported in Nebraska, as well as around the world. However, it is also very important to remember that it is of minimal concern. Symptoms of monkeypox include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Cough
- Muscle aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chills
- Nasal congestion
- Rash, sores, pimples, blisters on the mouth, hands, feet, chest, genitals, anus, or face
How is monkeypox transmitted?
Monkeypox spreads in a few ways, and anyone can get it.
The most common way in which monkeypox spreads is through physical contact with the monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids of a person with monkeypox.
While direct, skin-to-skin contact is the most common way for monkeypox to spread, the virus can also spread by touching objects, fabrics (materials such as bedding), and surfaces that someone with the monkeypox virus came in contact with.
Respiratory droplets/secretions during close contact are another way in which monkeypox can spread from close person to person.
How long does monkeypox last?
Monkeypox symptoms such as an unexplained rash will typically start to show within three weeks of exposure and last two to four weeks. The virus can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed, scabs have fallen off, and a new, fresh layer of skin forms. To prevent monkeypox from spreading, make sure to cover skin lesions and avoid direct contact with other individuals.
How to treat monkeypox
Although there are no treatments specifically for monkeypox virus infections, tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be recommended for patients at a higher risk for illness, such as people with weakened immune systems. Individuals with monkeypox should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss treatments for lesions caused by the virus.
Additional Information: Nebraska Monkeypox Updates – Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Urgent Care Omaha Walk-In Clinics and in Bellevue, NE
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Disclaimer
The information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes as well as to provide general information and general understanding of the pertinent medical issue only, not to provide a specific diagnosis. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this blog/web site you understand there is no doctor patient relationship between you and the blog/web site publisher. The information included on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a licensed medical professional in your state. Neither Urgent Care Network, its subsidiaries, affiliates, assignees or successors in interest, nor any other party assume liability for loss or damage due to reliance on content of this blog/web site. If you are experiencing a severe medical issue, you should seek emergency assistance immediately.
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