The individual with the presumptive case came into close contact with someone from out of state who is also being evaluated for the infection, according to APH.
APH is conducting contract tracing and reaching out to anyone who may have come in contact with the local patient. APH is also working with the Texas Department of State Health Services and the CDC as part of the investigation.
"While the threat of monkeypox remains low, we recommend that all Travis County residents be aware and seek medical care if you believe you have symptoms of the virus,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority, in a press release. “While our local health care providers are working with epidemiologists to monitor the virus, the community should continue the hygiene practices we know work such as hand washing and minimizing skin-to-skin contact, especially with those showing rashes or sores.”
The resident did not require hospitalization and is isolating at home. According to APH, monkeypox is rare and requires close contact to spread.
Per APH, the virus can spread from person-to-person through: “direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids; respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex; touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids; and pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta.”
Per APH, symptoms of monkeypox can include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion. It also can present as a rash of pimples or blisters on the face, inside of the mouth or other parts of the body. Healing can take several weeks.
APH said to prevent spreading the infection, individuals should minimize skin-to-skin contact with anyone exposed to or showing signs of an infection and avoid contact with any materials, such as bedding, that has possible been in contact with the virus.
At least 173 monkeypox cases have been identified in the U.S., according to the CDC, including at least five in Texas.
