HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The CDC has confirmed that the number of cases of monkeypox in Hawaii is five.
Three of the previously reported cases were classified as probable until the CDC confirmed that they were in fact monkeypox infections on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the state health department said earlier that it had identified “connections” between the five people. A spokesman said at least one case was “related to a social gathering”, saying details of the event had not been provided.
Despite the increase in cases, health officials said the risk to the general population remained low.
“The risk for most Hawaiians remains low,” Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Nathan Tan said in a press release.
“Anyone who has close contact with someone with monkeypox is at risk of infection – regardless of who they are, what they do or whether they are sexually active.
The health ministry said it was monitoring all cases and coordinating vaccines.
The cases of monkeypox come amid an outbreak across the country and in Europe.
Monkeypox usually requires very close contact to pass from one individual to another.
It often begins with flu-like symptoms and swollen lymph nodes. Patients also experience a rash or sores on the face and body. People usually get sick within 21 days of exposure.
The CDC said many of the cases involved gay, bisexual and other men having sex with men, suggesting that some sections of the population may need to take extra precautions. However, anyone who has been in close contact with someone with monkeypox is at higher risk of infection and should watch their symptoms closely.
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