BOISE, Idaho — Mpox returns to Idaho and health authorities stress the importance of vaccination.
According to a press release on Thursday, the Idaho Division of Public Health and Central District Health have announced the first two reported people being diagnosed with mpox in Idaho since last year. They state the investigation is ongoing, but both people reported traveling out of the state which may be related to their diagnosis.
Both people diagnosed are Ada County residents. There is no current evidence of ongoing transmission of mpox throughout Idaho.
Mpox, previously called monkeypox, is caused by a virus that can spread through prolonged direct contact with someone with mpox. Very rarely, you can be in contact with bedding and towels that have been contaminated by the virus.
Infection of mpox usually causes a rash that can look like pimples at first then like blisters. These may be all over the body, or in certain places like the face, hands or feet. Inside of the mouth, genitals or anus are also spots to check.
For some, symptoms are flu-like, such as a sore throat, runny nose, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and headaches. Someone with mpox may have all or only a few symptoms.
A person with mpox can spread it to others from the time symptoms start, until the rash is fully healed.
For those who have been exposed to someone with mpox, they should watch for symptoms for 21 days afterward and get vaccinated against mpox as soon as possible, preferably within four day but up to 14 days after exposure, if they aren't already vaccinated.
The mpox vaccine, JYNNEOS, can help prevent mpox and may help lessen symptoms. People should get two doses four weeks apart for the best protection.
Central District Health Staff Epidemiologist Sarah Wright said, "Since the first infection in the U.S., we have gained more knowledge and tools we can use to reduce the impact of this virus."
"One of these is the mpox vaccine, a preventive tool that has been shown to make symptoms milder in people that get mpox. If you are interested in this vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider or a provider at Central District Health," said Wright.
Find an mpox vaccine site near you using the mpox vaccine locator here.
For more information about mpox and mpox vaccines, see the CDC Website.
For more information about how else to lower your risk of mpox, see this CDC article.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.
CDH, Public Health District IV, is one of seven public health districts within the state of Idaho, serving the counties of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley.
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