HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The CDC has confirmed that the number of cases of smallpox in Hawaii is five.
Three of the previously reported cases were classified as probable until the CDC on Thursday confirmed that they were in fact monkeypox infections.
Meanwhile, the state Department of Health said earlier that it had identified “connections” between the five people. A spokesman said at least one case “was connected to a social gathering”, thinking no details were provided about the event.
Despite the increase in cases, health officials said the risk to the general population remains low.
“The risk to most Hawaiian residents remains low,” State Assistant Epidemiologist Dr. Nathan Tan said in a press release.
“Anyone who has close contact with someone with monkeypox is at risk of infection, regardless of who they are, what they do, or whether they are sexually active.”
The Department of Health said it is monitoring contacts in all cases and coordinating vaccines.
Cases of smallpox in monkeys occur in the midst of an outbreak throughout the country and in Europe.
Monkeypox usually requires very close contact to move from one individual to another.
It often begins with flu-like symptoms and swelling of the lymph nodes. Patients also experience rashes or sores on their face and body. In general, people get sick within 21 days of exposure.
The CDC has said many of the cases are between homosexuals, bisexuals and other men who have sex with men, suggesting that some populations may need to take extra precautions. However, anyone who has been in close contact with someone with monkeypox has a higher risk of infection and should monitor their symptoms closely.
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