Updated Guidance:

Managing Monkeypox Virus Infection in California

June 24, 2022

Today, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released updated information and guidance on managing monkeypox virus infection through its California Health Alert Network (CAHAN). 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.

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 are available in the CAHAN, 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 to discuss the case, and if appropriate, arrange testing of specimens.


Follow this this link for information on appropriate specimen collection requirements

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