An out-of-state man visiting Dallas probably contracted smallpox when he visited a gay bathroom, health officials said.
The unidentified man visited the Dallas Club, a private sauna for men where, according to the club’s website, guests can “socialize in one of our lounges or enjoy a video in your private locker room.” June 22-25.
The man was infectious during that time and has a confirmed case of smallpox, the Dallas Department of Health said.
During his stay, the man had sex with multiple partners, the health department said.
Smallpox smallpox is spread through contact with body fluids, smallpox wounds and shared clothing and bedding. It can also spread through respiratory droplets in nearby environments.
Dallas health officials warn anyone visiting the Dallas Club that they may have been exposed to the monkey’s smallpox and should be monitored for symptoms. Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches are common before a rash appears.
The man visited Club Dallas, a private sauna for men, June 22-25. Google Maps
“Nationwide, there are many cases of monkeypox on the sexual networks,” Dallas County Health and Human Services said. “(Those) at high risk of monkeypox exposure, including men who have sex with men, people who use social media apps to find sexual partners, and those who have had skin-to-skin contact with people with sores or other symptoms of monkeypox. Be aware of your risk and seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of monkeypox.
The Dallas Club did not respond to The Post’s request for comment on whether it had notified customers that they might have been exposed to the disease.
The only other four cases of monkeypox reported in Dallas County have been men who have sex with other men and have traveled recently, the health department said.