PSA: First Local Case of Monkeypox Confirmed in District

NIPISSING & PARRY SOUND, ON – The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) has received notification confirming a case of monkeypox in a person who resides in the district. This individual likely acquired the infection in the Toronto area. This individual is currently isolating, and close contact(s) have been notified.

The risk of contracting monkeypox remains very low in the Health Unit’s district, as there is no evidence of the virus circulating locally. Based on the low risk, only close contacts will be offered post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Any person who develops symptoms or who has had contact with a suspected or known case of monkeypox is asked to 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.

For more information on monkeypox visit myhealthunit.ca.

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Quick Facts

The monkeypox virus is spread most often by direct (skin) contact with an infectious rash, scab or body fluid, or by direct contact with contaminated items such as clothing or linens. It can also be spread through the respiratory tract with prolonged close contact with an infected individual, or if mucous membranes (eyes, nose or mouth) come into contact with infectious secretions.

People can protect themselves by:

Monitoring for symptoms for 21 days after exposure
Washing hands with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after contact with an infected animal or human
Using Personal Protective Equipment when required
Avoiding contact with individuals and animals that could have the virus
Avoiding contact with materials that have been in contact with a sick animal or person

Symptoms of monkeypox include:

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Backache
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills
Exhaustion
Within 1 to 3 days (sometimes longer) after the appearance of fever, the patient develops a rash, often beginning on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body.
The illness typically lasts for 2−4 weeks. Individuals are no longer infectious when the crusts of the lesions have fallen off revealing new skin below.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which means receiving the vaccine prior to any monkeypox exposure (for those who are likely to be exposed).

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), which means receiving the vaccine after a potential exposure.

Media Inquiries:

Alex McDermid, Public Relations Specialist
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca