Hamilton reports first case of monkeypox

Hamilton has confirmed its first case of monkeypox.

The city’s public health services says the person was most likely infected during a recent visit to Toronto.

The person is currently in isolation and all close contacts have been notified.

“At this time the risk to the general public remains very low, as we have not detected the virus circulating in Hamilton, and the virus does not spread easily,” said Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Elizabeth Richardson.

“Hamiltonians should not be concerned going about their routine daily activities. We continue to closely monitor the situation and advise any individuals who develop symptoms or who have had close contact with a suspected or known case of monkeypox to contact their healthcare provider and local public health unit immediately.”

Symptoms of the virus include fever, headaches, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes or lesions that typically start on the face and spread to other parts of the body.

Monkeypox does not spread easily between individuals. When it does spread, it is through contact with bodily fluids.

Following infection, the incubation period is normally six to 13 days but can range to as much as 21 days. Most people recover on their own without treatment.