Two more probable monkeypox cases identified on Oahu

DOH says all five confirmed and probable cases connected

Two more probable cases of monkeypox have been identified in Oahu residents, the state Department of Health announced Tuesday.

There have now been two confirmed and three probable cases in Hawaii, all on Oahu. DOH has also identified connections between all five people.

“The risk to most Hawaii residents remains low,” Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Nathan Tan said in a news release Tuesday. “Anyone who has close contact with someone with monkeypox is at risk of infection — regardless of who they are, what they do or if they are sexually active.”

DOH said it continues to conduct contact tracing and coordinate vaccination and treatment, which can be effective in controlling monkeypox infection.

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus, according to DOH. Infection begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion and swollen lymph nodes, and eventually progresses to a rash or sores, often on the hands, feet, chest, face or genitals. Individuals generally become ill within 21 days of exposure.

Monkeypox can spread through direct contact with body fluids, lesion material or items used by someone with monkeypox as well as close, prolonged contact with an infected person or animal. Monkeypox can be spread through large respiratory droplets. These droplets generally cannot travel more than a few feet, so prolonged face-to-face contact is required.

Individuals with symptoms should immediately contact their health care provider, DOH said.

Nationwide, monkeypox cases have been disproportionately reported among gay or bisexual men, and in Hawaii, at least some of the cases have been reported among gay or bisexual men, according to DOH. However, anyone who has close contact with someone with monkeypox is at risk of infection, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

“DOH reminds members of the community to respond with an inclusive, fact-based approach when discussing monkeypox,” the news release said. “Stigma is unacceptable and can drive people away from seeking healthcare services.”