The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported the first outbreak of a monkeypox-like virus in the Western Hemisphere. Monkeypox is a rare, zoonotic, viral disease that occurs primarily in Central and West Africa. Of the 19 reported human cases, one was reported in Northern Illinois, one was in Northern Indiana, and 17 were in Wisconsin. There have been no fatalities thus far, and all persons infected with monkeypox have been in contact with ill prairie dogs. The incubation period is about 12 days. Illinois state officials have determined the source of infected prairie dogs to be an exotic pet distributor in Villa Park, Illinois. Numerous other species ma also be at risk to the monkeypox virus including non-human primates, rabbits, and some rodents. Clinical signs in the infected prairie dogs include listlessness, ocular and nasal discharges, loss of hair with possible blister-like or scabbed lesions, and pneumonia. There is no treatment for monkeypox. In order to minimize human and animal exposure, it is being recommended that sick prairie dogs not be taken to a veterinarian. A toll-free number has been established for calls regarding questions about monkeypox at 1-866-427-7281. |
