EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso health officials are providing more information on MPox after two cases were confirmed in the city.
Dr. Ocaranza stated that the disease spreads through skin-to-skin contact and is not transmitted through the air or casual contact. “It’s the same virus that caused an outbreak across the US a couple of years ago. It is not uncommon to see sporadic cases of MPox across the country, and El Paso is not exempt from that. Having these two cases doesn’t mean we have an outbreak, but it is essential to inform the community that it can happen at any time,” he explained.
Vaccines for MPox are available in El Paso County.
The confirmed cases involve two men in their 40s who reside together. Both men are currently recovering at home.
Public health officials have initiated contact tracing efforts.
MPox is a viral infection characterized by a distinctive rash that may be painful or itchy, progressing through several stages, including the formation of scabs before healing. It spreads between people through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, and can also be transmitted from certain animals to humans.
Symptoms of MPox include:
- Distinctive rash
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and back pain
- Headache
Symptoms generally begin within three weeks of exposure. Some individuals may experience only a few symptoms, while others could experience the full spectrum.
How MPox Spreads:
- Through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
- Through intimate physical contact, such as kissing or sexual activity
- Through contact with infected wild animals via scratches, bites, or handling infected animal products
A person is contagious from the onset of symptoms until the rash has completely healed and new skin has formed. The illness typically lasts between 2 to 4 weeks.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has a rash that could be MPox
- Refrain from touching objects and surfaces used by someone with MPox
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water