Monkeypox Infection Confirmed in Maryland Resident Who Recently Returned from Nigeria

 

A monkeypox infection (same family as smallpox) was confirmed Tuesday in a Maryland resident who recently traveled to Nigeria.

“Public health authorities have identified and continue to follow up with those who may have been in contact with the diagnosed individual,” Dr. Jinlene Chan, MDH deputy secretary for public health, said in a statement. “Our response in close coordination with (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) officials demonstrates the importance of maintaining a strong public health infrastructure.”

Cases of human monkeypox infections are rare outside of central and western African countries.

WBALTV reported:

A single case of monkeypox virus infection was confirmed Tuesday in a Maryland resident who recently returned from Nigeria.

Maryland health officials said the has mild symptoms, is currently recovering in isolation and is not hospitalized.

MDH said Monkeypox is in the same family of viruses as smallpox but generally causes a milder infection. It can be spread between people through direct contact with skin lesions or body fluids, or contaminated materials such as clothing or linens. It can also be spread through large respiratory droplets which generally cannot travel more than a few feet, and prolonged face-to-face contact is required.

MDH said illness typically begins with flu-like symptoms and swelling of the lymph nodes, progressing to a widespread rash on the face and body. Most infections last two to four weeks. The individuals identified as having been potentially exposed to this case will be monitored for symptoms of monkeypox for 21 days after exposure, MDH said.

Click here to read more about monkeypox and symptoms.