Douglas County reports another potential case of monkeypox

Monday, the Douglas County Health Department said that the county is investigating a fourth possible case of monkeypox.

This news brings the overall number of suspected monkeypox cases in Nebraska to six, and represents the state’s first case since the World Health Organization declared the virus a global health emergency over the weekend.

Lindsay Huse, the director of health for Douglas County, stated in a statement that an investigation into the latest patient’s contacts had begun. To safeguard the privacy of the individual, the county will not provide any other information.

The risk to the public remains minimal, according to the county’s statement. Anyone with the characteristic rash that resembles pimples or blisters should seek medical attention or call the Health Department.

The condition often begins with fever, headache, muscle aches, lymph node enlargement, and fatigue. It is transmitted through prolonged personal contact with an infected person’s rash, scabs, or bodily fluids or respiratory secretions.

The current outbreak has disproportionately affected men who have sex with other men and persons who find partners through online platforms or social gatherings, according to the county, which added that anyone having skin-to-skin contact with an infected person for several minutes is at risk.

There have been more than 16,000 cases of monkeypox documented worldwide, and more than 2,800 cases in the United States and its territories.