By IDSE News Staff
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed the first death of a person diagnosed with monkeypox virus (MPV) in Texas.
As of Aug. 30, the state reported 1,598 cases, most among people who are 18 to 29 years of age, although there have been reported cases in children younger than 9 years. Nationally, 18,417 cases have been reported, and there were 49,974 global cases as of Aug. 22, according to the CDC. Most cases are still occurring among men who have sex with men.
Information about the Texas death is scanty. The person was an adult resident of Harris County, Texas, who was severely immunocompromised.
State health authorities are investigating the case to determine what role MPV played in the death.
“Monkeypox is a serious disease, particularly for those with weakened immune systems,” said John Hellerstedt, MD, the DSHS commissioner. “We continue to urge people to seek treatment if they have been exposed to monkeypox or have symptoms consistent with the disease.”
Authorities recommended that anyone who has been exposed to MPV contact their healthcare provider for vaccination and/or treatment.
