Galveston County Health District (GCHD) today reports its second probable monkeypox case, the first in a Galveston County resident. The health district previously reported its first probable case in an out-of-state resident who was diagnosed while in Galveston County.

Both cases are pending confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Both individuals are currently isolating in Galveston County and the health district?s epidemiology team is working to identify anyone who may have been exposed.

?If you develop a new or unexplained rash, we encourage you to seek medical attention immediately,? said Dr. Philip Keiser, GCHD CEO and Galveston County local health authority.

A rash that looks like pimples or blisters may appear on the face, inside the mouth and on other parts of the body like hands, feet and chest. Other symptoms are fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion. Some people may develop a rash, followed by other symptoms. Others may only experience a rash.

Monkeypox is a rare, viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus. The risk level to the general public remains low, according to the CDC and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

Monkeypox spreads from close contact with an infected person or animal through direct contact with skin lesions or bodily fluids or indirect contact with contaminated clothing or linens, as well as large respiratory droplets. Avoid close contact, including intimate physical contact, with others until a healthcare provider examines you and follow the same precautions while waiting for test results. Also, avoid close contact with pets and other animals.

For more information, visit the CDC.