Williamson County and Cities Health District is awaiting results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to confirm a presumptive case of monkeypox in Williamson County. WCCHD is also coordinating with the Texas Department of State Health Services as part of the ongoing investigation.
According health officials, the person acquired the infection while traveling outside of the county. They did not have any close contacts while infectious, did not require hospitalization, and are currently isolating at home.
The threat of monkeypox to the general Williamson County population remains low. Monkeypox is rare and does not spread easily between people without close contact.
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 sexual activity
- touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
- pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
Persons with monkeypox may develop symptoms such as a fever, swollen lymph nodes and general body aches before developing a rash. People should seek medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with monkeypox.
Vaccines are limited at this time and are only offered to those who need it.
