United States: With the increasing threat of health conditions across the United States, the Genesee County Health Department has now raised concern regarding the increasing cases of monkeypox illness. The figures released by the Department revealed that recently, the county had reported two confirmed cases of mpox illnesses this week.
The details and information regarding the patients have not been revealed by the health officials. Additionally, so far, the authorities have also not shared the details regarding the origin of the infection in the county, according to abc12.com.
Monkeypox and its origin in the United States
Mpox, which is scientifically known as monkeypox or MPV, is a virus that causes damage to the immune system of a human. The most common mode of virus transmission is physical contact or sexual activity.
According to the health experts, some of the common symptoms experienced by the infected person are:
- Rashes, bumps, or lesions around the mouth or genital areas.
- Fever
- Rectal issues
- Sore throat
- Respiratory congestion
- Muscle pain, and
- Headache
Mpox and vaccine against it
Following the upsurge of cases in the county, the health department has asked the people at risk of contracting mpox to receive the latest two-dose vaccine against the infection.
As per the experts, the vulnerable groups include those who have been exposed to the infection and people who have multiple sex partners. Along with this, the health department has also raised concerns regarding the people who have been recently diagnosed with sexually transmitted diseases, as per the reports published by abc12.com.
Reportedly, vaccines against the disease are available (for free) at the Genesee County Health Department for the people who exhibit risk factors increasing the likelihood of them contracting mpox.
Collective efforts by health departments to eradicate mpox
Several reports have outlined that the Health Department of Genesee County has joined hands with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, area healthcare organizations, and local leaders to raise awareness about the recent surge in pox cases.
In this regard, Genesee County Interim Health Officer – Michelle Estell noted, “Vaccination is an important tool in stopping the spread of mpox,” according to the reports by abc12.com.
Mpox and its background in the US
For the first time in history, the pox infection was identified in the United States in May 2022. In the same year, many other countries around the globe also reported the surge of the infection.