Introduction
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is found primarily in parts of Central and West Africa. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus family. The virus is related to smallpox, but much less severe. Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, rash, and body aches. In some cases, it can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia or neurological problems.
Although monkeypox is not common in the United States, there have been several reported cases in recent years. This article will explore monkeypox in the United States, providing an overview of cases and outbreaks across the country. It will investigate which states have the most cases, examine prevalence rates, and look at risk factors for the virus.
Survey of Monkeypox Cases Across the United States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks reported cases of monkeypox in the United States. As of June 2020, the CDC has reported a total of 77 cases in 18 states. The majority of cases have occurred in the Midwest and South, with Indiana, Missouri, and Texas reporting the highest number of cases.
So far, the most cases have been reported in Indiana, with a total of 20. Missouri has reported 14 cases, while Texas has reported 11. Other states with reported cases include Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
Investigating Risk Factors for Monkeypox
It is important to understand the risk factors for monkeypox in order to prevent the spread of the virus. The primary risk factor for monkeypox is contact with infected animals or people. The virus can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or through contact with their body fluids. It can also be spread through contact with objects that have been contaminated with the virus.
The states with the highest number of cases are located in regions of the country where contact with wild animals is more common. For example, Indiana and Missouri both have large rural areas where people may come into contact with wild animals. Additionally, many of these states have high populations of pet owners who may come into contact with infected animals.
Overview of Monkeypox Outbreaks in the US
In 2003, the first outbreak of monkeypox was reported in the United States. It occurred in a group of prairie dogs that had been purchased from a pet store in Illinois. From there, the virus spread to humans, resulting in a total of 37 reported cases in six states. Since then, there have been several smaller outbreaks reported in various states.
Overall, the rate of monkeypox in the United States is relatively low. According to the CDC, there were only 2.5 reported cases per million people in 2018. However, this rate varies significantly from state to state. For example, Indiana had the highest rate of monkeypox with 17.7 cases per million people, while Texas had the lowest rate with 0.4 cases per million people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious virus that is found primarily in parts of Central and West Africa. Although it is not common in the United States, there have been several reported cases in recent years. The majority of cases have occurred in the Midwest and South, with Indiana, Missouri, and Texas reporting the highest number of cases.
The primary risk factor for monkeypox is contact with infected animals or people. The states with the highest number of cases are located in regions of the country where contact with wild animals is more common. Overall, the rate of monkeypox in the United States is relatively low, but it varies significantly from state to state.
By understanding the risk factors for monkeypox and monitoring cases in the United States, we can help to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the public health. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the prevalence of monkeypox in each state and to take steps to reduce the risk of infection.
