Fort Dodge Correctional Facility Mpox: Mpox has been detected at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility in Iowa. This news has raised concerns as the disease is highly contagious. The Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC) has confirmed at least one case of Mpox at the facility.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection. It has two main strains: clade 1 and clade 2. The strain found at Fort Dodge is clade 2, which is less severe than clade 1. Mpox spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected person or contaminated materials.
Current Situation at Fort Dodge
The IDOC is actively managing the outbreak at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility. Paul Cornelius, Chief of Staff for the IDOC, stated that robust health measures are in place. Affected individuals are receiving medical care, and enhanced sanitation and isolation protocols are being used to prevent further spread.
As of now, it is unclear how many of the 1,251 inmates have contracted the disease. The facility has implemented strict measures to contain the outbreak and prevent it from spreading further.
Global Context and Risks
Mpox was first declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO) in July 2022. This decision came after an increase in cases in Europe and the Americas. Recently, WHO declared a new global health emergency to address clade 1, a more severe strain of Mpox.
Globally, Mpox has been reported in 122 locations with 99,518 cases as of August 6. Although clade 1 is more commonly reported and has been deadly in Africa, clade 2 has a high survival rate of 99.9%. Despite this, there is concern about the possibility of clade 1 spreading to the U.S.
Vaccine Information
There is a vaccine available for Mpox, which is recommended in two doses. Studies show that the vaccine helps prevent Mpox and makes any infection less severe. Fully vaccinated people have a very low chance of getting Mpox, with infection rates under 1%. However, only 23% of eligible individuals have received the vaccine so far.
Early Symptoms of Mpox
Early symptoms of Mpox can be hard to notice and include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Backache
- Swollen glands
- Chills
- Exhaustion
- Joint pain
A rash usually appears 1 to 5 days after these initial symptoms. The rash can appear on various parts of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals, and anus. Symptoms typically last two to four weeks but may last longer in individuals with weakened immune systems.
How Mpox Spreads
Mpox spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. It can also spread through contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing. Close or intimate contact increases the risk of transmission.
Conclusion
The detection of Mpox at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility highlights the need for vigilance and proper health measures. While clade 2 is less severe than clade 1, it is crucial to understand how Mpox spreads and recognize its symptoms. By staying informed and following preventive measures, we can help manage and reduce the risk of Mpox infections.
