Alberta has already confirmed four cases of monkeypox. The province’s chief medical officer, Dr. Dinah Hinshaw, made the announcement during a press conference on COVID-19 on Thursday.
“These elderly people are isolating themselves and I want to express my gratitude for their help in tracking contacts and investigations,” she said.
Hinshaw noted that most of the monkeypox cases reported worldwide were in the gay community. She says Alberta Health has contacted organizations across the province that serve the LGBTQ2S + community to provide information.
“This is not done to embarrass or condemn anyone, and this does not mean that anyone who has contracted monkeypox or has been in contact has done something wrong.
Hinshaw stressed that the province is trying to provide accurate information to protect the health of Albert residents.
Monkeypox is spread by skin-to-skin contact or by touching things infected with the virus, such as clothing or bedding.
Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, swollen glands, sores or a rash.
Hinshaw said anyone experiencing monkeypox symptoms should isolate themselves and call 811.
“These are common symptoms and most people with these symptoms will have another cause. However, awareness of these symptoms is especially important for anyone who has had a new sexual partner, “Hinshaw said.
She stressed that the risk of contracting monkeypox in Alberta remains low.
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