Second case of monkeypox discovered in Alberta

A second case of monkeypox has been identified in the province.

Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, took to Twitter Tuesday saying the infected person is currently self-isolating and assisting their team with the investigation and contact tracing.

Hinshaw says the person’s identity is not being released and is not linked to the first case announced last week.

She adds, at this time, the overall risk of contracting monkeypox remains low in Alberta.

Hinshaw says monkeypox is predominantly transmitted through close physical skin-to-skin contact, which is why it can be spread to sexual partners.

While monkeypox is not an STI, the majority of global cases to date have been among men who have reported intimate relations with other men. She adds this does not mean monkeypox is limited to one community.

Anyone with prolonged close contact with someone who is infectious is at risk and it is important not to stigmatize any group. Advice to practice safer sex applies to everyone, such as avoiding having sex if feeling unwell.

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However, it is important to be aware that there may currently be an elevated risk for individuals in this group, particularly those who have recently had a new sexual partner.

“We have reached out to organizations serving this community to understand how to best support them,” her tweet reads.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as genital sores, fever or rash, especially in those who have recently had a new sexual partner, or if you believe you have been in prolonged close contact with someone with monkeypox, please self-isolate & call 811.