The monkeypox virus has found its way into Norfolk County.
The health unit announced Friday that a Norfolk resident has tested positive and is currently being isolated at home.
The contacts of the infected resident have been notified, according to a statement from the health unit.
“There is no increased risk of monkeypox for the general public arising from this case,” acting health doctor Dr. Matt Strauss said in the statement.
“Outside of an emergency, if you have symptoms of monkeypox, it’s important to stay home and call your doctor for evaluation. When seeking medical attention, you should wear a high-quality medical mask. and cover all open injuries and sores “.
The monkey’s smallpox is spread by direct physical contact, often touching a rash on the skin of an infected person, but sometimes by “respiratory secretions” if it is nearby for an extended period of time, the health unit said.
“Most people infected with monkeypox will have mild symptoms and will recover on their own without treatment,” the statement said.
Symptoms that last two to four weeks can include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, low energy, muscle aches, rashes or injuries, sometimes starting on the face or genitals and spreading to other places.
The health unit says symptoms usually begin between six and 13 days of exposure to the virus.
The Halton region recorded its first confirmed case of monkeypox early this month.
Close contact of patients with monkeypox is eligible to receive the smallpox vaccine, which also offers protection against smallpox.
TO SHARE: