Austin Public Health: Monkeypox is Now Considered Community Spread
AUSTIN, Texas – Austin Public Health (APH) reports community spread of monkeypox in Austin-Travis County as additional cases are identified and confirmed. APH continues to provide key information to the public in an effort to prevent the spread of monkeypox within the community and educate the public on preventative steps they can take to avoid exposure and protect themselves.

People should try to avoid skin-to-skin contact with strangers, especially those who have a rash or whose health history is unknown. The virus can also be spread through contaminated clothing or bed linens, and by sharing eating utensils or cups, cigarettes or vaping devices, kissing, and other activities where saliva might be exchanged with a person who has monkeypox.

“We need to be safe and follow practices we’ve learned from COVID-19 to prevent the spread of monkeypox here in our community,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Try to reduce close, intimate interactions with those whose health history you’re unaware of. Use hand sanitizer, and wear masks when in close quarters with others who have symptoms.”

Monkeypox can be spread to anyone, regardless of sexual orientation and travel history. While the virus is known for causing patients to have a rash, symptoms can also include fever, muscle and body aches, headaches, chills and swollen lymph nodes.

“Stigma and blame undermine trust and capacity to respond effectively during outbreaks like this one,” said APH Director Adrienne Sturrup. “We know from experience that stigmatizing rhetoric can disable an evidence-based response with fear, driving people away from health services and impeding case investigations.

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