First case of monkeypox reported by Sudbury health unit

The health unit in Sudbury is confirming the first case of monkeypox in the area.

In a news release, Public Health Sudbury & District said the individual likely acquired the infection in the Toronto area.

The individual is isolating and all close contacts have been identified.

"At this time, the risk to the general population remains low, as we have not detected the virus circulating in Sudbury and districts, and it does not spread easily," Dr Penny Sutcliffe, medical officer of health, said in the release.

"Residents should not be concerned going about their routine everyday activities," she said.

The health unit is closely monitoring the situation.

Anyone who develops symptoms, or who has had contact with a suspected or known case of monkeypox should contact their health care provider immediately.

"Anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, age, or gender can spread monkeypox through contact with body fluids, monkeypox sores, or by sharing contaminated items," Sutcliffe said.

Monkeypox — a rare disease for North America — is usually a mild illness and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. It spreads through close contact with an infected person, or with their clothing or linens. It enters the body through skin-to-skin contact with body fluids (saliva, lesions, blisters, or rashes) and through mucus membranes or respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact (breathing, talking, and coughing).

Symptoms usually develop five to 21 days after exposure and last between two to four weeks. 

Symptoms include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle, joint and back pain, and exhaustion. A rash could also develop on the face or extremities, as well as hands, feet, mouth, and genitals that later form scabs.