Fort Dodge Correctional Facility Mpox: Mpox, a contagious viral disease known for causing rashes and skin pustules, has been detected at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility. The Iowa Department of Corrections is actively managing the situation to prevent further spread within the facility.
In this article, we’ll explain what Mpox is, how it spreads, and what steps are being taken to control the outbreak at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease similar to smallpox. It was first discovered in primates in 1958 but can affect humans. The virus is part of the same family as smallpox, though Mpox is generally less severe.
Mpox spreads through close contact, particularly through bodily fluids, skin-to-skin contact, and respiratory secretions. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated objects such as clothing, bedding, or surfaces.
There are two main types of Mpox:
- Clade I (found in Central Africa) – more severe.
- Clade II (found in West Africa) – less serious and more common.
The strain found at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility is clade II, the milder form of the virus.
How Is Mpox Spreading in Fort Dodge Correctional Facility?
Mpox was detected at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility, but the exact number of infected prisoners hasn’t been disclosed yet. The Iowa Department of Corrections has implemented enhanced sanitation protocols and isolation measures to stop the virus from spreading further. Affected inmates are receiving medical care, and the facility is working closely with health experts.
Symptoms of Mpox
Symptoms of Mpox can last between two to four weeks and are similar to the flu. They include:
- Fever and headache.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Fatigue and muscle aches.
- Chills.
- Back pain.
One of the key symptoms of Mpox is the development of a painful rash. This rash starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, including the hands, feet, chest, and even genitals. The rash typically begins as small pimples or blisters, which eventually fill with fluid, dry up, and fall off.
The incubation period (time between infection and symptoms) is usually six to thirteen days, but it can be as short as five days or as long as three weeks.
How to Prevent Mpox
To prevent the spread of Mpox, it’s important to avoid close contact with infected individuals or those showing symptoms. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following precautions:
- Avoid touching the rashes or scabs of an infected person.
- Stay away from items like bedding and shared objects that might be contaminated.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
These measures can help reduce the risk of infection, especially in crowded environments like correctional facilities.
Vaccination for Mpox
Vaccines are available to protect against Mpox, especially for people in higher-risk groups, such as children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is a two-dose vaccine that provides strong protection against both clade I and clade II strains of Mpox. According to the CDC, the vaccine is highly effective, with fewer than 1% of vaccinated individuals becoming infected. Those who do get infected after vaccination experience milder symptoms than those who are unvaccinated.
For more information about Mpox vaccination locations in Iowa, visit the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services website at hhs.iowa.gov/immunization/mpox-mpv.
Final Thoughts
The Mpox outbreak at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility is being carefully managed, with health officials implementing strict sanitation and isolation protocols. As Mpox is a highly contagious virus, it’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid its spread. Vaccination is also a crucial step in protecting against severe illness.
By following health guidelines, the spread of Mpox can be contained and managed effectively, both inside and outside the correctional facility.
