Monkeypox spreading among community in King County

Monkeypox is spreading through the community in King County, according to local health officials.

In May, a local case of monkeypox was discovered in a patient who recently traveled to an area where it was being spread. This matches other accounts around the globe where people returned from traveling having contracted monkeypox.

But new cases have emerged in King County which indicate that monkeypox is spreading among the community.

“Finding monkeypox in residents who were likely exposed locally highlights the importance for people who are at higher risk for monkeypox and for healthcare providers to be able to recognize the symptoms promptly, and to take steps to limit the risk for infection and the spread to others," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, health officer for King County.

According to Public Health Seattle-King County, of the 7,000 global monkeypox cases, about 560 are in the United States. As of July 6, there are nine cases in King County. Dr. Duchin says this is to be "expected." He also says that vaccines for monkeypox are being prioritized for higher risk people.

“We expect to see additional cases locally as the outbreak grows in the US and globally," Dr. Duchin said. "We are working to limit the impact on our community, collaborating with a strong network of community-based organizations to share information so that people can quickly recognize if they develop a rash or other flu-like symptoms, limit close contact if symptoms develop, and get checked out right away.”

King County has set up a website with monkeypox information. Anyone with symptoms is urged to contact their doctor.

Monkeypox symptoms generally show up within two weeks of exposure and are similar to the flu, plus a rash. Most people recover within 2-4 weeks, however, monkeypox can be dangerous for higher risk people.