Mpox has been identified at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility in Iowa, prompting immediate health measures.
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Mpox is a viral infection similar to smallpox and was first discovered in primates in 1958. It has been rebranded to avoid stigma, with clade II being the strain currently affecting Fort Dodge.
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The detected strain at Fort Dodge is clade II, a milder form compared to the more severe clade I found in Africa. Clade I has led to a global health emergency, though it hasn’t reached the U.S. yet.
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Before the Fort Dodge outbreak, Iowa had reported only one Mpox case in 2023 and 30 cases overall. Nationwide, there have been over 32,000 cases and 58 deaths, highlighting the importance of vigilance.
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Mpox spreads through bodily fluids and physical contact. It can transmit between people via respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or contaminated objects, making close contact a primary risk factor.
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Mpox symptoms are flu-like and can include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. The rash begins on the face and spreads to other body parts, forming painful pustules.
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The time from exposure to symptoms of Mpox ranges from 5 to 21 days. Initial signs include fever and headache, followed by the appearance of a rash that evolves through several stages.
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The JYNNEOS vaccine, which requires two doses, is recommended for higher-risk groups. It’s shown to be highly effective, with fewer cases of infection and milder symptoms in vaccinated individuals.
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To prevent Mpox, avoid contact with infected individuals and their contaminated items. Regular hand washing and using hand sanitizer are crucial preventive measures.
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For those seeking vaccination in Iowa, visit the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services website to locate nearby Mpox vaccination centers and ensure you're protected.
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