The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert regarding the potential risk of new cases of MPOX, formerly known as monkeypox. This memo aims to provide you with important information on the risks associated with MPOX, available vaccines, prevention measures, and treatment options.
The CDC has recently warned health care providers across the country about the potential “resurgence” of MPOX cases, particularly in the context of summer gatherings. This warning comes following a cluster of cases reported in Chicago, where health officials have confirmed 12 cases and one probable case between April 17 and May 5, 2023. Tarrant County reports two confirmed cases since April 29, 2023. It is crucial that we remain cautious and take necessary safety measures, especially considering the disproportionate impact MPOX had on the LGBTQ community during the 2022 outbreak. Public health experts have emphasized the importance of being aware of signs and symptoms prior to the Pride Month celebrations in June. The CDC is actively collaborating with local health departments to spread awareness and provide vaccination opportunities before the associated events in June.
It is worth noting that none of the MPOX patients in Chicago have been hospitalized, although nine of the cases were among fully vaccinated men. While vaccines, including the one for MPOX, significantly reduce the likelihood of infection, they do not eliminate the risk entirely. However, vaccination is strongly encouraged as it can result in less severe symptoms for those who do get infected.
As of now, booster doses are not recommended for fully vaccinated individuals. Nonetheless, it is important for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people to avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have MPOX.
Please keep in mind that vaccines, although highly beneficial, are not the sole method of reducing the risk of contracting MPOX. There are other important risk reduction strategies to consider, such as avoiding social and sexual contact if you have new skin lesions and maintaining open communication with your intimate contacts regarding any symptoms or new skin changes they may be experiencing.
Signs and Symptoms:
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Rash that may begin as flat then form blisters or crust
The incubation period for MPOX is usually 7-14 days but can range from 5-21 days.
Transmission of MPOX primarily occurs through respiratory droplets or contact with an infected person’s skin lesions. Prolonged fact-to-face contact is typically required for respiratory droplet transmission. Other methods of transmission include direct contact with body fluids or lesion material, as well as indirect contact with contaminated clothing or linens. Animal-to-human transmission may occur through bites, scratches, or contact with body fluids or lesion material.
There are currently no specific treatments available for MPOX. However, there are some existing medications that may be used to control outbreaks. Vaccination is available through Tarrant County Public Health Department and can be administered up to 14 days after exposure. To determine if you are eligible to receive the MPOX vaccine, copy and paste this link in your browser: https://www.tarrantcountytx.gov/en/public-health/disease-control—prevention/monkeypox.html?linklocation=About%20Us&linkname=Mpox%3C
If you suspect exposure to a person or animal with MPOX, please contact HSC Health Student Health clinic at 817-735-5053, your health care provider, or reach out to the Tarrant County Public Health Call Center at 817-248-6299.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/response/2022/us-map.html
https://www.tarrantcountytx.gov/en/public-health.html
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/cdc-warns-potential-risk-mpox-ahead-summer-gatherings/story?id=99339609