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Mpox Detected at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility: What You Need to Know

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral infection that causes skin lesions and can lead to serious illness. Symptoms of mpox include a rash, fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and chills.

How is Mpox Spread?

Mpox is spread through close contact with an infected person or their bodily fluids. This can include contact with respiratory droplets, skin lesions, or contaminated objects.

Who is at Risk for Mpox?

Anyone can get mpox, but certain individuals are at higher risk, including:

• Healthcare workers
• People with weakened immune systems
• People with sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• People who have lived or traveled in regions where mpox is common

What are the Symptoms of Mpox?

Symptoms of mpox can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include:

• Rash
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills

In severe cases, mpox can lead to sepsis, pneumonia, and death.

How is Mpox Treated?

There is no specific cure for mpox, but antiviral medications can help reduce symptoms and prevent serious complications. Supportive care, such as pain relievers and fluids, is also important.

How to Prevent Mpox

There are several ways to prevent mpox, including:

• Getting vaccinated
• Avoiding close contact with infected people
• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands and avoiding sharing personal items
• Using condoms during sex

Mpox Detected at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility

On August 25, 2023, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced that mpox had been detected at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility. This was the first confirmed case of mpox in Iowa.

IDPH is working with the facility to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread. All inmates and staff who have come into contact with the infected individual are being monitored for symptoms.

The Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC) has implemented enhanced infection control measures at the facility, including:

• Quarantining the infected individual
• Monitoring all inmates and staff for symptoms
• Cleaning and disinfecting the facility
• Providing vaccinations to inmates and staff

IDPH and IDOC are working closely to prevent the spread of mpox within the facility and the community.

Conclusion

Mpox is a serious infection, but it can be prevented and treated. If you have any questions about mpox, please contact your healthcare provider or the Iowa Department of Public Health.