July 14, 2022

Monkeypox cases reported in three Washington counties

No cases have been reported in Kitsap County. 

Public health agencies are reporting a growing number of monkeypox cases in Washington state, amid a global outbreak. Twenty-nine monkeypox cases have been identified in King County as of July 14. Pierce and Snohomish county have also reported cases. 

No monkeypox cases have been reported in Kitsap County. The risk to the general population from monkeypox remains low. However, residents should be aware that monkeypox has been reported in neighboring counties and is spreading globally. Contact a healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of monkeypox or think you have been exposed to someone with symptoms. 

Kitsap Public Health District has asked local healthcare providers to seek testing for individuals who have symptoms of monkeypox and report possible cases to the District. 

What is monkeypox and why is it a public health concern?

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by a virus. Infection can spread from animals to humans, and then from person to person. 

Monkeypox is being reported this year in countries that do not normally report monkeypox cases, including the United States. Most of the cases in Washington have been connected to travel. However, Public Health Seattle & King County recently reported that the virus is likely spreading within King County.

How serious is it?

Most people recover in two to four weeks. Monkeypox can cause serious illness, especially in people who are immunocompromised, children, and people who are pregnant.

How does monkeypox spread?

The monkeypox virus is most often spread through close, skin-to-skin contact with someone who has monkeypox (usually contact with a rash, sores or scabs from a person with monkeypox) or items they have used.

Anyone can get monkeypox. According to the CDC, many cases report having sustained physical contact with people who have monkeypox symptoms. While many of those affected in current outbreaks are gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, anyone who has been in close contact with someone who has monkeypox can get the illness. Learn more about monkeypox prevention and sexual health.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Symptoms can include a rash or sores that can look like pimples or blisters (see image below). The rash can appear anywhere on the body. 

Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, headaches or muscle aches, swollen glands, and exhaustion can occur before a rash or sores appear. 

Learn more about identifying monkeypox.

How to protect yourself and others

• Avoid skin-to-skin contact with people who have symptoms similar to monkeypox, especially a rash or sores.  
• If you develop an unexplained rash or sores similar to monkeypox, contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible and avoid physical contact with others.

Is there a vaccine for monkeypox?

Vaccines are available to prevent monkeypox and similar viruses. Vaccination is being prioritized for people who have been exposed to monkeypox. National supplies are limited. 

More resources

• World Health Organization 
• CDC 
• Washington State Department of Health

CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org