First confirmed case of Monkeypox in SWPH region

This is the first case of monkeypox confirmed in Oxford County, Elgin County or the City of St. Thomas

September 15, 2022 - Southwestern Public Health has confirmed the first positive case of Monkeypox in the region in an adult male.

The virus is transmissible through direct contact with lesions, respiratory secretions, or materials contaminated by the virus such as bedding. Symptoms usually develop 5 to 21 days following an exposure. Individuals are contagious for 7 to 14 days and up to 21 days.

“Monkeypox does not typically spread easily among people without close, prolonged contact with a case,” says Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health for Southwestern Public Health. “As with many other diseases that spread through close contact, people can lower their risk by maintaining physical distance, frequent hand washing, and practicing respiratory hygiene including masking.”

Anyone who develops a rash after feeling unwell, or after a known exposure, is asked to self-isolate and call their primary care provider or Telehealth for advice.

Southwestern Public Health also offers pre-exposure vaccination appointments to those who may have a high-risk of transmission or complications from an infection. Visit swpublichealth.ca/sexualhealth-monkeypox for clinic hours and eligibility details.