(Carrick Pharmacy News) Total monkeypox case numbers continue to climb, but the rate of new infections may be slowing down.
That’s likely to be good news for those who were afraid we might have another pandemic on our hands.
As of the time of publication, 26,049 cases of monkeypox had been reported in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Globally, 69,244 cases had been reported.
Of the cases in the US, two had resulted in death as of the time of publication.
According to the CDC, men who have sex with men appeared to account for the majority of monkeypox cases reported in the US.
“However, anyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, who has been in close, personal contact with someone who has monkeypox is at risk,” the CDC wrote on its website.
The latest numbers suggest that there may be some good news about monkeypox: Daily average infection rates appear to be declining.
The seven-day moving average of new monkeypox infections in the US peaked at 438 on Aug. 10. Every day since, the rate has declined, reaching a low of 144 new infections on Sept. 28.
Of course, that doesn’t mean the risk of monkeypox infection has disappeared. Health officials still recommend taking precautions.
The CDC recommends these steps to protect yourself:
- Avoid close (skin-to-skin) contact with anyone who has a rash that could be related to monkeypox.
- Avoid all contact with materials or objects that a person who had monkeypox has used.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
If you are concerned about your risk for monkeypox, speak with your healthcare provider.
