1st case of monkeypox confirmed in Cumberland County by health officials

The Cumberland County Department of Public Health said Monday it has confirmed the first case of monkeypox in the county.

"The individual who tested positive is currently isolating and close contacts have been notified," said the county in a statement. "To protect patient privacy, no additional information about the individual will be shared."

As of August 1, 2022, there have been 5,189 confirmed cases of monkeypox in the United States per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are currently 60 confirmed cases in North Carolina.

Cumberland County Department of Public Health said it is scheduling vaccination appointments for individuals who meet eligibility criteria to receive Jynneos, a vaccine that has been found to prevent monkeypox illness or lead to less severe symptoms in individuals recently exposed to monkeypox.

Because of very limited supply, vaccinations in North Carolina are currently only offered to individuals with known or suspected exposure to monkeypox.

“The time is now. We urge those who meet the criteria to be vaccinated as soon as possible,” said Dr. Jennifer Green, Health Director. “We will continue to be diligent in monitoring the monkeypox spread in our county and provide testing for those who may be experiencing symptoms.”

Individuals may call the Health Department at 910-433-3600 to request a vaccination appointment if they meet one of the following eligibility criteria:

Vaccines are free, regardless of insurance status. Individuals will not receive a bill for the vaccine. If you have health insurance, the Health Department will bill your health insurance only with your consent.

To learn more about monkeypox, go to the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website at https://epi.dph.ncdhhs.gov/cd/diseases/monkeypox.html#.