Chicago Public Health Commissioner Allison Arwady said Friday that while the number of new MPV cases has dropped significantly since the summer, it is a clear reminder that MPV is dangerous and can lead to serious illness and, in rare cases, even death. We express our sympathy to these people’s families and friends.
Officials said they would not disclose any other information about the two cases, including where they were treated to protect their privacy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has reported more than 27,000 monkeypox cases and six deaths. Monkeypox cases were reported in all 50 states.
The first confirmed case of monkeypox in the United States was reported in Massachusetts in May.
According to CDC , monkeypox symptoms usually start within three weeks after exposure to the virus, and the disease usually lasts for two to four weeks.
monkeypox patients will develop rashes, which may be located on or near the genitals or anus, or other parts such as hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth. According to the CDC, other symptoms may include fever, chills, swelling of lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle and back pain, headaches and respiratory symptoms.
infected people may experience all or only a few symptoms. CDC says if someone has flue-like symptoms, they usually develop a rash after one to four days.
Officials said monkey pox deaths are still rare. According to World Health Organization , 32 of the more than 75,000 cases reported in 2022 have reported deaths.
Arwady said that the vast majority of patients with death [monkeypox] have other health conditions, which lead to severe weakening of the immune system.
She added: "Please keep taking it seriously. If you are at risk of MPV infection, take precautions and get vaccinated to protect yourself and your loved ones. These measures are especially important if you have comorbidities and/or weak immune system."
Chicago health officials encourage individuals who meet eligibility criteria to receive two doses of monkeypox vaccine, 28 days apart.
