The first probable case of Monkeypox is being confirmed in Illinois.
A male from Chicago didn’t need to be hospitalized but is home in isolation with the virus. He had recently traveled to Europe. State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Connie Austin says Monkeypox is pretty rare but can be serious.
“If someone thinks they have been exposed to Monkeypox or they have symptoms of Monkeypox after an exposure they should call their health care provider and local health department right away because it is best to get in and if they need testing based on their symptoms then we can do that and they can be started on treatment.”
The case remains isolated and at this time there is no indication there is a great risk of extensive local spread of the virus, as monkeypox does not spread as easily as the COVID-19 virus.
At least 19 cases of Monkeypox have been confirmed across multiple states.
The last time the virus popped up in Illinois was in 2003. It causes flu-like symptoms and a rash.
