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Updated Case-finding Guidance:

Monkeypox Virus Infection

June 15, 2022

Yesterday, the CDC released through its Health Alert Network (HAN) Updated Case-Finding Guidance: Monkeypox Outbreak – United States, 2022. The Orange County Healthcare Agency (OCHCA) wants to make sure providers are aware of the potential for monkeypox virus infection in patients who meet epidemiologic criteria and/or a clinically consistent rash. As of this time, no cases of monkeypox virus infection have been identified in Orange County. While monkeypox remains rare, as of today 72 cases have been reported in 18 states and territories, including 15 cases in California. Globally, over 1,800 cases of monkeypox virus infection have been identified in 35 countries associated with the current outbreak.

Additional Recommendations:

Epidemiologic criteria for consideration of monkeypox include any of the following within 21 days of illness onset:


  • Reports having contact with a person or persons with a similar appearing rash or with a person who has received a diagnosis of confirmed or probable monkeypox, OR
  • Had close or intimate in-person contact with persons in a social network experiencing monkeypox infections. This includes MSM who meet partners through an online website, digital application (“app”), or social event (e.g., a bar or party), OR
  • Traveled within 21 days of illness onset outside the United States to a country with confirmed cases of monkeypox or where monkeypox virus is endemic, OR
  • Had contact with a dead or live wild animal or exotic pet that is an African endemic species, or used a product derived from such animals (e.g., game meat, creams, lotions, powders, etc.)


Images of rash associated with monkeypox virus infection a are available on the CDC HAN as well as on the OCHCA monkeypox website.


 No commercial testing for monkeypox is available. Requests for testing must come via local public health authorities. If you suspect that you have a patient with monkeypox contact the OCHCA Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180 immediately, and we can discuss the case and if appropriate arrange testing of specimens. Follow this this link for information on appropriate specimen collection requirements.

Contact Information:
If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Communicable Disease Control Division at (714) 834-8180.

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