Since May 14, 2022, monkeypox has been spreading from person to person in countries where the virus is usually not found, including the United States. Wisconsin has confirmed cases of orthopoxvirus, presumed to be monkeypox, in Wisconsin residents. View current case counts.
Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral illness. The monkeypox virus is from the same family of viruses as the smallpox virus. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but are less severe. It is also less transmissible than smallpox and rarely fatal.
Monkeypox is typically characterized by a new, unexplained rash that develops into characteristic hard, round, fluid- or pus-filled skin lesions. Other early symptoms include:
The monkeypox rash develops within one to three days after fever. However, some people may experience a rash or sores first, followed by other symptoms. Some people may also only develop a rash.
The monkeypox virus is spreading mostly through close, intimate contact with someone who has monkeypox.
You can take steps to prevent getting monkeypox and lower your risk.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to monkeypox.
If you have any symptoms of monkeypox, talk to your healthcare provider, even if you don’t think you had contact with someone who has monkeypox. Students may call the UW-Stevens Point Student Health Service at (715) 346-4646.
If diagnosed with monkeypox, notify your close contacts and isolate while having symptoms and until the rash has fully healed.
715-346-4646
Monkeypox (CDC)
Institutions of Higher Education Resources (CDC)
Monkeypox in Wisconsin (Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services)
5 Things to Know about Monkeypox (CDC)
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