CDC confirms first monkeypox case in St. Clair County, second probable case identified
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed the first monkeypox case in St. Clair County, and local authorities have identified a second probable case.
The county’s first case was identified July 14, and the St. Clair County Health Department was made aware of the second July 29. The health department is awaiting CDC confirmation on the second probable case, per a Wednesday release.
Contact tracing shows the person with the July 29 probable infection had minimal contact with the public, and any close contacts have been notified. County health department officials said they will provide the vaccine to individuals who have been identified as close contacts.
If you suspect you have been exposed to or infected with the monkeypox virus, the health department recommends you contact your health care provider.
The vaccine is currently designated for individuals who have been exposed to but not tested positive for the virus.
Madison County reported its first two probable monkeypox cases as well, according to an Aug. 9 press release. Both individuals are in isolation, the statement said, and the probable cases were related to domestic travel.
The CDC has reported 701 monkeypox virus cases in Illinois, as of Aug. 9. The agency has confirmed 9,492 cases across the U.S.
This story may be updated.
