Walla Walla County investigating probable case of monkeypox
By Terry Murry on Friday, August 26th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News Featured Stories
WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla County Department of Community Health is working with the Washington State Department of Health in investigating the county’s first probable monkeypox infection. The patient was not hospitalized and is currently isolating.
DCH’s contact investigation team is working to identify anyone who may have come in close contact. Those who have been exposed could be eligible for the monkeypox vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis. Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to monkeypox or have the characteristic rash or other symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. The overall risk of monkeypox to the general population remains low. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and a rash that can look like pimples, appearing on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body.
