The best doctor in Alberta has reported that the province has confirmed its first case of monkeypox.
Dr. Deena Hinshaw made the announcement on Twitter on Thursday afternoon, saying it was an “isolated case” and that the individual had “close contact” with a “known case” outside of Alberta.
They now self-isolate and work with Alberta Health to allow contact tracking, Hinshaw added.
“Monkeypox is a rare disease that can cause fever, pain and rashes,” Hinshaw said. “While monkeypox is uncommon and is generally considered low risk to the general public, an isolated case has now been confirmed in Alberta.”
Hinshaw said the transmission can be caused by contact with body fluids, sores or personal items recently contaminated with body fluids or sores.
“The monkey’s smallpox is not easily spread among people,” he added. “While it is also possible to get sick from respiratory drops after spending a long time near an infected person, those most at risk are those who have had prolonged close contact with a case.”
As of Wednesday, the Quebec Ministry of Health confirmed 52 cases of the virus, while Toronto confirmed its second infection.
Globally, there are more than 550 confirmed cases in 30 countries, including Spain, Portugal, Thailand, Mexico and Israel.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smallpox was first discovered in 1958 when it was first identified in colonies of research monkeys in captivity. The first human case was reported in 1970.
Early symptoms of the rare disease include fever, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Within three days after the first onset of symptoms, patients may develop a rash all over the body that passes into pustules or scabs that may fall off as the virus progresses. The illness usually lasts two to four weeks, according to the CDC.
Due to privacy issues, Hinshaw said no further identifying information would be released about the monkeypox case.
“While the risk of infection is currently low for the general population, monkeypox can affect anyone who is in prolonged close contact with an infected person,” Hinshaw added.
“We continue to investigate the spread of monkeypox with our federal and provincial partners and will regularly assess the situation as it evolves.”
CTV News Edmonton has contacted Alberta Health for further comments.
With files from CTV News Montreal and CTVNews.ca