Peterborough Public Health confirmed the first confirmed case of smallpox in the region on Wednesday, June 22, just two days after the provincial health agency confirmed 33 cases in Ontario.
Dr. Thomas Piggott, a health officer in the Peterborough region, says those who have been in contact with the case have been notified. The contacts of the case are offered a vaccine as a form of post-exposure prophylaxis.
Smallpox is a virus that can be transmitted between animals and humans through close and prolonged contact. While the smallpox of the monkey belongs to the same family as the smallpox, the smallpox of the monkey has much milder symptoms and is less contagious.
According to Ontario Public Health, monkeypox is a rare viral disease that causes fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and lethargy, followed by the development of a rash on a person’s body. It is transmitted to people through direct contact with body fluids or injuries of infected animals or people, through the respiratory droplets of an infected person or the mother to the fetus.
Provincial-level data show that as of June 20, 28 of the 33 cases were reported in Toronto, and so far all cases are limited to the male population.
There are, however, 11 more probable cases in the province and 34 suspicious cases.
The 45 probable cases and suspicious cases included 11 women, and were reported by nine public health units.
“The monkeypox virus has been circulating in Ontario for the past few weeks. We anticipated that it would reach our region and we are ready to support case and contact efforts,” Piggott said.
“The smallpox of the monkey is not easily transmitted between people; However, we recommend that everyone be aware of the signs and symptoms of the virus and seek immediate medical attention if there are any symptoms. “
Symptoms can occur between five and 21 days after exposure to someone who has the virus. Symptoms may include:
• Rash or blister in the mouth and around the genitals
• Inflammation of the lymph nodes
• Fever and chills
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Exhaustion
Peterborough Public Health recommends that residents experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Although there is no cure for the virus, the symptoms can be controlled and people usually recover within two to four weeks.
Visit peterboroughpublichealth.ca for more information on the Monkeypox virus. Additional information can also be found on the Gay Men’s Sexual Health Alliance website.
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