There are no cases in our region, but the Northwestern Health Unit is making us aware of the presence of monkeypox elsewhere in Canada.
There are over 320 cases in Ontario, mostly in the Toronto area.
The Health Unit says spread can easily occur as people travel to or visit from the areas where case numbers are high.
“It is important that anyone who thinks they may have monkeypox connects with a health care provider right away; this disease can be controlled when care is given early,” says Dr. Kit Young Hoon, Medical Officer of Health.
The most common symptoms of Monkeypox include a rash with blisters, fever, headache/muscle aches, tiredness, and swollen lymph nodes.
Monkeypox can spread through close physical contact with someone who has symptoms.
Most of the cases have also been seen in men who report sexual or intimate contact with other men. However, Monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted infection, thus making all people at risk.
The Health Unit says the best way to prevent monkeypox is by limiting contact with people who have symptoms or a suspected or confirmed monkeypox diagnosis.
Prevention measures include:
- Isolating and contacting a health care provider if you have symptoms
- Wearing a mask if you have symptoms and must be around others
- Avoiding skin-to-skin, face-to-face, and sexual contact with anyone who has symptoms
- Avoid sharing clothing, bedding, towels, cups, or utensils
- Covering any sores
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