The Ohio Department of Health has confirmed the first probable case of monkeypox in the state, ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff said on Monday.
According to the health department, an adult male has a probable case of the disease, and is awaiting a PCR confirmation from the CDC.
“I want to emphasize strongly at the outset that monkeypox does not spread easily between people,” said Vanderhoff. “This disease is not like COVID-19, which, as we know, can be spread easily from person to person through the air over several feet in space. In contrast, monkeypox spreads between people primarily through direct contact with infectious sources such as scabs or body fluids.”
The person with the case remains isolated and is following protocols suggested by their healthcare providers and public health administrators to protect the resident's privacy, Vanderhoff said.
ODH says anyone experiencing an “unexplained” rash should contact a health provider immediately. Monkeypox is a viral illness, which starts with flu-like symptoms.
There are 49 confirmed cases in the United States across 15 states, most of which have occurred among men who have sex with men, Vanderhoff said. However, he added, “it’s important to note that anyone can get monkeypox."
There are nearly 1,500 cases confirmed worldwide with no deaths reported in 30 different countries.
RELATED: Officials find 2 monkeypox strains in US
Watch a portion of the news conference below.
-
90-year-old Indy outdoorsman featured in new documentary
The Fish Thief will have a special screening at the Madam Walker Legacy Center on September 16, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Speeding concerns on Meridian Street reach new high following deadly crash
Residents in one north side neighborhood are raising new concerns over speeding issues on North Meridian Street following a deadly crash over the weekend.
University of Indianapolis helps research ways to improve literacy rates
The Department of Education's latest IREAD assessment shows third-grade reading scores made their biggest single-year jump since testing started in 2013.
Police investigating dozens of car break-ins across neighborhoods in Fishers
Fishers police are investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins over the weekend that left dozens of residents with shattered windows and costly repairs.
