Monkeypox

  • What is Monkeypox?

    Monkeypox is a rare disease that before this year, most cases in the United States were associated with international travel.

     

    Symptoms

    Fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. A rash can look like pimples or blisters on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, or chest. The rash goes through different stages before healing completely. The illness typically lasts two to four weeks. Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash.

     

    How to prevent monkeypox

    • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with the monkeypox rash.
    • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
    • Do not share eating utensils or cups.
    • Do not handle or touch a sick person's bedding, towels, or clothing.
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with sick people.

     

    What to do if you come in contact with someone who has monkeypox

    People with monkeypox who are isolated at home should regularly clean and disinfect their spaces, including commonly touched surfaces and items, to limit household contamination. People with monkeypox who are isolated at home with others who don't have monkeypox should follow the isolation and infection control guidance, and any shared spaces, appliances, or items should be disinfected immediately following use.

     

    What to do if you contract monkeypox

    See your healthcare provider immediately. If you don't have a provider or health insurance, visit a public health clinic near you. The Guilford County Health Department can be reached at (336) 641-3245.

    Avoid having close contact with anyone until you have been seen by your health care provider.

    Guilford County Schools partners with the Guilford County Department of Health and Human Services to maintain safe schools and safe spaces for all students and staff.  If you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, please contact your healthcare provider or your child’s school nurse.