As we begin the fall semester, we encourage you to take a few moments to
educate yourself about Monkeypox and how you can protect yourself and other members of our Viking community.
While there are currently only a small number of reported cases in Cuyahoga County, Monkeypox is a viral disease that has been deemed a public health emergency by both the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization.
Here are some important things to know:- People with monkeypox may experience flu-like symptoms—including fever, headache, fatigue, body aches and swelling of the lymph nodes. Other symptoms may be present.
- The infection comes with a rash and/or skin lesions on the body and face, though it can present in any localized area (hands, face, mouth, genitals).
- Symptoms generally present within 1-2 weeks of exposure and resolve within 2-4 weeks.
- Monkeypox primarily spreads through close contact between people, including skin-to-skin contact; in respiratory droplets exchanged in face-to-face contact, including kissing, and through indirect contact (including towels and toiletries) that have been used by an infected person.
- If you are experiencing skin lesions, a rash or any of the other related symptoms – or have had close contact with someone infected with monkeypox – contact your primary health care provider and avoid close contact with others.
We continue to closely monitor developments with both COVID-19 and Monkeypox. We will keep you updated and adjust our safety measures as needed. Our success in managing COVID-19 was due to your commitment to safe behaviors and continued vigilance. We appreciate your efforts and know you will rise to this new challenge.
Sincerely,
