On Thursday, June 16, 2022, WDG Public Health received confirmation of the first local case of monkeypox. The individual is male, age 20-30, residing in Guelph. At this point, Public Health is completing follow-up treatment and contacting anyone else who might be at risk from this case, including those who may require vaccination against the virus. A close contact of a positive monkeypox case is defined as someone who has had intimate, skin-to-skin contact with the monkeypox rash or contact with the case’s infectious droplets.
“There is no increased risk of monkeypox to the general public stemming from this case,” said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, Associate Medical Officer of Health for WDG Public Health. “The virus is primarily transmitted through contact with fluid from the virus’ lesions, so it is important to be aware and take necessary precautions if you are in intimate contact with someone who has monkeypox lesions.”
Human monkeypox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus. It presents with symptoms similar to, but less severe than, smallpox. Symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue, and a rash/lesions (which may appear on the face or genitals and then spread to other areas).
Most people recover on their own without treatment, and close contacts of a positive case can be effectively treated with a vaccine.
Beyond taking steps to reduce risk of infection, no action is required by members of the public with respect to this case, but the public should be aware of monkeypox symptoms and contact their primary care provider immediately if they have any concerns.
Media Contact
Danny Williamson
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4376