Fort Dodge Correctional Facility : Fort Dodge, IA – Mpox has been detected at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility in Iowa, marking the first reported cases of the disease in the state this year. The Iowa Department of Corrections has confirmed the presence of Mpox but has not yet disclosed the exact number of infected prisoners.

What is Mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a highly contagious viral disease that causes rashes and flu-like symptoms. The virus exists in two primary strains: Clade 1 and Clade 2. The strain identified at the Fort Dodge facility is Clade 2, which is considered less severe compared to Clade 1. While Clade 1 has a higher mortality rate and has been causing significant outbreaks in Africa, Clade 2 has a 99.9% survival rate.

Current Situation at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility
The Iowa Department of Corrections has implemented robust health measures to manage the outbreak. According to Paul Cornelius, Chief of Staff, “We’re actively managing the situation with robust health measures.” Affected individuals are receiving medical care, and enhanced sanitation and isolation protocols are in place to prevent further spread.

Symptoms and Transmission
Mpox symptoms include rashes, fever, sore throat, and general flu-like symptoms. The disease spreads through close contact with an infected person or contaminated materials. The incubation period typically ranges from six to 13 days but can extend to 21 days in some cases.

Global Context
Globally, Mpox cases have been reported in over 120 countries since the beginning of 2022. In Africa alone, 17,541 cases have been reported in 2024, with 517 deaths, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The World Health Organization has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and response to manage the spread of Clade 1, which has caused severe outbreaks.

What’s Next?
The Fort Dodge Correctional Facility is working closely with health authorities to ensure a coordinated response. The facility’s population of 1,251 inmates is being closely monitored as authorities seek to contain the outbreak and prevent further cases.

For ongoing updates on the Mpox situation at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility and other health news, stay tuned.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *