Facts About Monkeypox to Share with Your Caregiving Team

Monkeypox has now been found in all 50 states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Wyoming recently reported a single case of the virus, becoming the last state in the nation to do so.

There are now more than 18,100 reported cases of monkeypox in the U.S, with New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Georgia leading the way according to CDC data.
 
Care for Your Caregivers by Sharing Information to Keep Them Safe and Healthy
 
HCAOA has found that caregivers greatly appreciate when their agencies prepare them with information and recommendations on how to stay healthy when caring for clients in their homes. We encourage you to share this information with your staff and caregivers.
 
Monkeypox Fast Facts
 Below are some fast facts directly from the CDC about Monkeypox, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself and your caregivers from it.

•  ​What is Monkeypox? It is a rare disease from the same family of viruses as smallpox, with symptoms similar to smallpox, but milder and rarely fatal. Read more here: About Monkeypox
•  How Can We Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of a Possible Monkeypox Infection? Click here for the list.
• How Does Monkeypox Spread? The disease is most often spread through close, personal contact or by touching objects, fabrics or surfaces that have been used by someone with the disease. Click here to learn more about how monkeypox spreads.
• How Can Our Caregivers Avoid Getting Monkeypox? Take the following steps to avoid getting Monkeypox: 1) Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who look like they may have a monkeypox rash; 2) Avoid touching objects or materials used by a person with monkeypox; 3) Wash hands often; 4) Avoid bedding or materials touched by a person with monkeypox.
• Where Can We Obtain Information About the Monkeypox Vaccine? Contact your county or state Department of Health about the Monkeypox vaccine and where to get obtain the vaccine.