Milwaukee resident tests positive for mpox, marks 40 cases since summer 2022 – Fox11online.com

Mpox, formerly known as monkey pox. (Photo courtesy: Getty Images)

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) announced on Tuesday, Feb. 6 that a Milwaukee resident recently tested positive for mpox. It is the first identified case of mpox in Milwaukee since June 2023.

Health officials say the Milwaukee resident tested positive on Friday, Feb. 2. MHD officials are in contact with the individual, who is isolating and following all recommended guidance and has notified all close contacts.

A news release says from July 2022 through now, there have been 40 positive cases of mpox in the City of Milwaukee. Prior to July 2022, Milwaukee did not see any mpox cases for many years.

Officials say mpox can be contracted through close personal contact with symptomatic individuals. Anyone can spread mpox, regardless of sexual orientation, though current tracking suggests that gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men make up a high number of cases. Those at risk include (but are not limited to) men who have sex with men, who have more than one sexual partner, and those who have sex with them, regardless of gender.

Characterized by a painful rash or sores resembling pimples or blisters, accompanied by flu-like symptoms, mpox manifests within three weeks of exposure. The contagious period extends from symptom onset until the rash completely heals, scabs fall off, and new skin forms. Recovery typically occurs within two to four weeks.

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To curb the spread of mpox, individuals at risk are advised to:

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Milwaukee resident tests positive for mpox, marks 40 cases since summer 2022 - Fox11online.com