Greenville, North Carolina – Wastewater samples from a sewage plant in Greenville, NC have indicated the presence of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. The samples, taken in late March and early April, suggest that an individual in the city may have had the virus during that time.
Mpox virus has two genetic types, referred to as clade I and clade II. The type detected in the wastewater samples from Greenville was clade I. NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai noted, “The detection of clade I mpox virus in wastewater surveillance indicates the potential presence of the virus in the state, despite no reported and confirmed cases.”
Although no Mpox cases have been reported in North Carolina, Sangvai emphasized the importance of healthcare professionals being vigilant for symptoms in patients. Any suspected Mpox infections should be reported to local health departments or the NCDHHS Division of Public Health’s 24/7 epidemiologist on-call number at 919-733-3419.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes Mpox infection as being characterized by rashes on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near genital areas, accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus is primarily transmitted through prolonged close contact, often skin-to-skin, particularly during sexual activity.
Sangvai advised individuals at higher risk to protect themselves by getting vaccinated, with vaccines available by appointment at all North Carolina county health departments. It is crucial for residents to stay informed, vigilant, and proactive in preventing the spread of Mpox in the community.