LAKE COUNTY (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A local county health department is warning residents about a rise in Mpox cases.
The Lake County Health Department issued a health bulletin this week, urging vigilance against the viral disease formerly known as Monkeypox.
Health officials say as of last month there were 64 reported cases of Mpox in Illinois. There were only 12 such cases at this time last year. Much of the cases involve men, between ages 25 and 34, who have sex with men and bisexual individuals.
With Pride Month beginning soon, the health department says it is important to look out for the virus and take precaution.
Those at risk include those who recently traveled to central/western Africa or countries with identified cases as well as people who have had intimate contact with confirmed Mpox cases, the health department said.
Health officials advise vaccination for those who have risk factors.
Mpox has an atypical presentation, the health department said. It starts with a fever accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes, flu-like symptoms and a deep-seated rash that may begin in the area of sexual contact.
The health department says Mpox is transmitted by contact with body fluids, lesions, and contaminated items like clothing, bedding and surfaces. The virus is contagious upon the beginning of early symptoms.
Patients are asked to contact the Lake County Health Department for testing and treatment options.
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