The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed Travis County’s first monkeypox case. The case, which involves a local resident who was exposed to the virus by someone else from out of state, was considered to be “presumptive positive” prior to the CDC’s official confirmation.
Austin Public Health is also investigating five additional presumptive cases where symptoms have been seen that are consistent with monkeypox.
“This spread of monkeypox within our community is concerning. Anyone who believes they may have symptoms of the virus should reach out to a medical provider immediately,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “This virus is predominantly spread through close, intimate contact with others. You should avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone showing rashes or sores.”
Despite Walkes’ claim of community spread, only 12 cases have actually be confirmed across the entire state as of Friday morning.
Monkeypox is rare and does not spread easily between people without close contact.
