SNOHOMISH COUNTY — A case of Monkeypox was logged in a Snohomish County man late last week, the Snohomish Health District announced Monday. It is a viral condition circulating in low numbers around Washington state. Twenty cases have been logged statewide, all in the Puget Sound region.
"Transmission of monkeypox requires close interaction with a symptomatic individual," the state Department of Health says.
It's spread through sexual contact, through contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, contact with infected animals, or through breathing droplets of an infected person's breath for a prolonged period, according to the state Department of Health.
It causes a rash which causes a raised bump -- it can look similar to a wart -- as well as flu-like symptoms and swollen lymph nodes. People become immediately contagious after becoming infected. The condition takes two to four weeks to get rid of.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that while a rare virus, the nation is currently experiencing an outbreak. The first human case was reported in 1970. Rodents and monkeys can harbor it.
To prevent monkeypox, the CDC says people should wash their hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
The Snohomish Health District says that to protect yourself and others:
* Be aware. While monkeypox remains generally low risk in Washington, those at higher risk of exposure should consider precautions. This can include avoiding or limiting sexual contact with new or unknown partners; clear communication with potential partners about whether either of you is experiencing symptoms; and avoiding close physical contact with anyone who has symptoms, particularly open wounds, sores, or rashes.
* Be alert for the appearance of a new rash or rashes characterized by sores, bumps, or fluid-filled bumps.
* If you have symptoms, or if you have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox in the last 21 days, you should contact a healthcare provider to see if you should be tested.
Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox, the CDC said.
