1st monkeypox case identified in B.C.

The first confirmed case of monkeypox has been identified in B.C., in a Vancouver resident.

B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) epidemiologist Mayank Singal told CBCthe individual had recently travelled and was a contact of another person with aconfirmed case ofmonkeypox. Singal declined to comment on where this person had travelled or provide any other details about themout of concern for theirprivacy.

The BCCDC says Vancouver Coastal Health is conducting a public health follow-up.

Monkeypox symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, headaches and fatigue and can present anywhere from five to 21 days after exposure.

Itspreads through contact with sores and items like bedding or towels with the virus on themand through respiratory droplets fromcoughingand sneezingduring prolonged close, face-to-face contact with a person who has monkeypox. Singal said it's not transmitted as easily as COVID-19.

The BCCDCsays the risk of contracting monkeypox remains low.

"Be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox, but certainly at this point, there's no cause for concern of widespread transmission," Singal said.

As of June 4, more than 780 cases of the virus had been confirmed in countries where monkeypoxis not typically seen, according to the World Health Organization. At least 77 of those are in Canada.

The BCCDC saysglobal infections are primarily among men who have sex with other men, however, the virus can affect anyone through close contact.

Anyone who develops symptoms of monkeypox is advised to see a doctor, wear a mask, cover any lesions and let the clinic know their symptoms ahead of arrival.