July 27, 2022

First case of monkeypox reported in Kitsap County

KITSAP COUNTY, WA — Local health officials are responding to a probable case of monkeypox in a Kitsap County resident. It is the first case of monkeypox reported in the county. 

The resident, an adult male, tested positive this week for Orthopoxvirus — the group of viruses that causes monkeypox. The CDC will conduct follow-up testing to confirm the case. Health officials are working to identify and notify anyone who might have been in close contact with the infected person.

More than 100 cases of monkeypox have been identified in Washington since May, with the majority of cases reported in King County. The United States is experiencing a monkeypox outbreak this year. 

Monkeypox most often spreads through close, physical contact with an infected person who has symptoms. Symptoms include a rash with fluid-filled bumps or sores, which can appear anywhere on the body. Most people who have monkeypox recover in two to four weeks. Monkeypox can cause severe illness, especially in people who are immunocompromised. See the Q&A below or visit the state Department of Health website for more information. 

"The first case of monkeypox in Kitsap is cause for awareness but not alarm," Kitsap Public Health District Health Officer Dr. Gib Morrow said. "We are asking residents to be aware of how monkeypox spreads and contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms."

Kitsap Public Health District has also asked local healthcare providers to seek testing for individuals who have symptoms of monkeypox and report possible cases to public health. Updates on monkeypox in Kitsap County will be posted to the Kitsap Public Health District website.

Vaccination limited to close contacts

Vaccination for monkeypox is not available to the general public or local healthcare providers at this time. Vaccine supplies are limited. Vaccination is being prioritized for people who have had close contact with monkeypox cases and are at high risk for infection. 

The state Department of Health expects to receive additional vaccine supplies in late August. Vaccination eligibility could expand to include more high-risk groups as supplies increase. See the Department of Health's website for more information. 

MONKEYPOX FACT SHEET Click here to download our printable monkeypox fact sheet. You can find more information and updates on these websites:  CDC  Washington State Department of Health Kitsap Public Health District

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

Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder. Monkeypox is rarely fatal. 

Monkeypox is being reported this year in countries that do not normally report monkeypox cases, including the United States. Monkeypox cases have been reported in several Washington counties, with the majority reported in 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).

Monkeypox can also spread through respiratory droplets or saliva during face-to-face contact, such as kissing, or contact with items such as clothing or bedding used by someone with monkeypox.

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 images 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 close 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 currently restricted to people who have had close contact with monkeypox cases. 

More resources

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

CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org