Since May 2022, monkeypox cases have been identified in the states among both persons returning from international travel and their close contacts domestically with evidence of person-to-person disease transmission in multiple states. Public Health is working with local medical providers to increase their awareness of the symptoms of monkeypox, how to prevent transmission, and appropriate reporting to state and local health authorities. Although the overall risk to the general public is low, please see the information below on how to prevent, test and seek treatment for monkeypox. If you are worried you have symptoms of monkeypox, please contact your doctor right away.
- Monkeypox is a virus that spreads through prolonged skin to skin contact, sex, kissing, breathing at very close range, or sharing bedding and clothing.
- Monkeypox is rare and currently a low threat to the general public.
- It can be serious, though most cases resolve on their own. Seeing a doctor right away is important.
- Having sex or close physical contact with multiple people can put you at higher risk for monkeypox if it is spreading in the community.
- It appears as a distinctive rash or sores on the skin anywhere on the body, especially in the genital area. It often begins as flu-like symptoms.
- We are working with state and federal agencies to monitor for monkeypox, and to help control the spread of the virus.
Here are some images* of what monkeypox can look like (click on image to enlarge):
* “Monkeypox rash” by NHS England High Consequence Infectious Diseases Network
How to Protect Yourself From Monkeypox
- Cover exposed skin in crowds
- Don’t share bedding or clothing with others
- Talk to close physical and sexual contacts about their general health like recent rashes or sores
- Stay aware if traveling to countries where there are outbreaks
Monkeypox Vaccine Information
Santa Cruz County Public Health has received the Jynneos vaccine from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for preventative use in people who are at high risk because they were notified of an exposure within the past 14 days.
The Jynneos vaccine is for preventative use only and is a two-dose vaccine that is administered 28 days apart and has been approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration for safe and effective monkeypox prevention.
Vaccine supplies are limited, however we are expecting new allocations of the Jynneos vaccine to arrive weekly.
We are working with healthcare systems to expand the locations of vaccines to their members and patients, while ensuring an equitable distribution to people who are uninsured, disconnected from care, or are from underserved communities.
Currently, Santa Cruz County residents are eligible for a Jynneos vaccine if they are:
- Identified as a close contact of someone who has monkeypox (suspected or confirmed)
- Self-reported as a close contact of someone who has monkeypox (suspected or confirmed)
- Received a notification from a venue or event of a potential exposure to someone who has monkeypox (suspected or confirmed)
- A laboratory worker who routinely handles monkeypox virus samples for diagnosis or testing purposes or any clinician who has a high-risk occupational exposure
How to get a vaccine:
- Call your healthcare provider to find out if you are eligible to receive the Jynneos vaccine.
Vaccine Resources:
Monkeypox Symptoms
A rash consistent with monkeypox (see picture below) or if you have been in contact with someone who has been diagnosed with monkeypox.
If You Have Symptoms
- Cover the area of the rash with clean, dry, loose-fitting clothing
- Wear a well-fitted mask
- Avoid skin-to-skin, or close contact with others
- Contact a health care provider as soon as possible
- Assist public health officials to track others who may have been exposed
Screen regularly for sexually transmitted infections. Syphilis and herpes are much more common than monkeypox – they appear similar and should be treated too.
Here are some images* of what monkeypox can look like (click on image to enlarge):
* “Monkeypox rash” by NHS England High Consequence Infectious Diseases Network
Most recent Monkeypox Health Advisories
Santa Cruz County Public Health is following guidance from CDC and CDPH for:
- Evaluation of persons with signs and symptoms of potential monkeypox
- Monkeypox testing and specimen collection
- Infection control in healthcare and home settings
- Home isolation of suspect cases
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) of exposed contacts using Jynneos vaccine
Provider Testing Guidance
Please note that monkeypox testing requires prior approval from the Santa Cruz Communicable Disease Control team (see instructions below).
Click here for more information about Monkeypox