MIDLAND, Texas — The Midland Health Department said Friday that they are monitoring an increase in monkeypox (mpox) cases in Midland and the West Texas region.
Below are some of the symptoms to look out for with monkeypox, courtesy of Midland Health:
Typically, mpox symptoms start within 21 days of exposure to the virus. Individuals may develop flu-like symptoms first, followed by a rash one to four days later. If you have symptoms, such as a rash, visit a health care provider.
A person with mpox can spread it to others from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
Symptoms include:
· A rash that will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
· The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.
· Fever
· Chills
· Swollen lymph nodes
· Exhaustion
· Muscle aches and backache
· Headache
· Respiratory symptoms (e.g., sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
Some individuals may experience all or only a few symptoms.
Midland Health says this is how it can spread:
Mpox can spread to anyone through close, personal contact, including:
· Direct skin-to-skin contact with mpox rash or scabs from a person with mpox
· Contact with saliva, upper respiratory secretions (snot, mucus), and bodily fluids from a person with mpox
· Pregnant people with mpox can pass the virus to the fetus during pregnancy or to the newborn during and after birth.
· Through contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have not been disinfected after use by someone with mpox.
If you get sick, this is what Midland Health says to do:
· If you think you might be sick with mpox, see a health care provider as soon as you can and inform them of any contacts you may have had with individuals with mpox.
When going to the health care provider for testing, it is recommended to keep the rash covered and wear a mask to prevent spread.
· Keep the rash covered to limit the spread to others and to the environment.
· Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others and sharing things like linens, bedding, clothing, or food.
· Clean and disinfect household spaces to limit contamination.
If you were in contact with someone who was diagnosed with mpox, please monitor for symptoms and get tested if any develop. You can also speak with your health care provider for evaluation to see if you fit the criteria to receive the JYNNEOS mpox vaccine.