Wayne County Health Officials Confirm Mpox Case

WAYNE COUNTY, MI — Wayne County health officials confirmed the county's first mpox case since 2022.

County health officials are waiting for test results to determine if the case is related to a new strain that is responsible for the current outbreak underway in sub-Saharan Africa.

It is the 19th case reported in Michigan this year.

Mpox, or monkeypox, is a viral illness that primarily spreads through close contact with an infectious rash, scabs or bodily fluids, though the virus does not spread easily between people.

Symptoms include a flu-like illness with fevers, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms. A rash that resembles pimples or blisters then forms on the skin.

Symptoms usually start within 21 days after exposure. The virus is contagious from the time symptoms start until scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of skin has formed, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Health officials urged vulnerable people to make sure they are up-to-date on the two-dose mpox vaccine. The shots are taken four weeks apart to provide full protection.

Anyone who has only received one dose should get a second dose as soon as possible.

Mpox vaccinations are available for free and testing at low to no cost at Wayne County Public Health Division, by calling 734-727-7101.