First cases of monkeypox confirmed in South Carolina, health officials say

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has confirmed two cases of monkeypox in South Carolina – one in the Midlands and the other in the Lowcountry.

“We expected infections to eventually occur in South Carolina as part of the larger international outbreak, which is why DHEC has been planning a response for weeks,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Lina Bell said. “That said, monkeypox doesn’t spread easily and we believe the risk to the general population remains low at this time.”

Monkeypox is a rare illness that can become serious. People may experience flu-like symptoms, rashes on the body, and swollen lymph nodes; but it is not easily spread.

People can become infected through face-to-face contact, skin-to-skin contact, or contact with contaminated materials. The infection can last anywhere from two to four weeks in most cases.

The two patients in South Carolina are being monitored until they are no longer at risk of spreading the illness, and will be placed in isolation if necessary, DHEC said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also been notified of the cases.

Health officials did not specify which counties or towns the patients live in.

The regional epidemiology staffs in both the Midlands and Lowcountry are doing contact tracing and offering vaccinations to people who have been exposed to the illness. Those individuals will also be monitored.

Health care officials are asked to report each potential monkeypox case to DHEC to receive guidance on evaluating the situation. People who have been in contact with someone who is infected with monkeypox or are having symptoms are told to seek medical attention or call their local health department.

(WATCH BELOW: Health officials confirm 1st case of monkeypox in Mecklenburg County)

Health officials confirm 1st case of monkeypox in Mecklenburg County

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