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SJ County’s 1st possible case of monkeypox is now being investigated
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STOCKTON — San Joaquin County Public Health Services (SJCPHS), working with California Department of Public Health, is investigating the first probable case of monkeypox infection in the county.

The person has preliminarily tested positive for Orthopoxvirus in lesion samples and meets compatible clinical and epidemiologic criteria.

 SJCPHS is following up with people with whom the individual may have had close contact. Additional details about the individual will not be released for reasons of medical privacy. SJCPHS has also received reports of confirmed cases but will update the public once the preliminary investigation is complete.

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with monkeypox virus. The overall risk of monkeypox to the general population is low.

 Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to monkeypox or have the characteristic rash or other symptoms, should contact their health care provider immediately.

Once a positive case is detected, SJCPHS will do a thorough tracing and monitoring of close contacts. If determined to be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), contacts can receive the monkeypox vaccine (brand name JYNNEOS) on a referral basis.

Efforts are underway to ensure that antiviral treatment with Tecovirimat (brand name TPOXX) will be available to eligible patients in San Joaquin County.

At this time, Tecovirimat must be obtained through the public health system. SJCPHS will closely monitor the situation and update the public about the status of the virus and any other measures that can be taken to minimize the effects and evade another outbreak