La DPH De Delaware Informa Dos Casos Nuevos De Viruela Símica; El Riesgo Para El Público Permanece Bajo

DOVER, DE (21 de Julio de 2022) – La División de Salud Pública de Delaware (DPH) anuncia el segundo y tercer caso del virus de viruela símica en el estado. Ambos casos se consideran probables a la espera de pruebas de confirmación por parte de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC).

Esta semana, DPH recibió los resultados de pruebas que muestran que un hombre del condado de Sussex de 46 años dio positivo para viruela símica. El paciente no reportó ningún viaje y reportó los primeros síntomas el 18 de Julio. La DPH está trabajando en comunicarse con el paciente para informarle sobre las opciones de tratamiento y entrevistarlo para obtener una lista de posibles contactos.

Además, la DPH recibió los resultados de las pruebas para viruela símica. El paciente no informó ningún viaje y los primeros síntomas se informaron el 14 de Julio. Se le aconsejó al paciente que se autoaislara hasta que las lesiones se hayan caído y aparezca nueva piel.

“El riesgo general para el público es bajo y sigue siendo bajo,” dijo el Director Interino de la DPH, el Dr. Rick Hong. “La viruela símica se transmite a través del contacto íntimo cercano con personas que tienen erupciones o síntomas similares a los de la gripe. Urgimos a que las personas se informen sobre esta rara enfermedad, incluyendo sobre la forma en que se propaga, y ayudar a prevenir la exposición. La DPH continuará trabajando con los proveedores médicos para evaluar e identificar a las personas para la prueba viruela símica. Y daremos prioridad a nuestro suministro limitado de vacunas para las personas que han estado expuestas a la viruela símica para la profilaxis posterior a la exposición (PEP).”

A partir del 21 de Julio, la DPH operará una línea directa para personas con inquietudes específicas debido a síntomas o posible exposición. El número de la línea directa es 866-408-1899 y funcionará en el siguiente horario:

  • Lunes– Viernes desde las 8:30 a.m. hasta las 4:30 p.m.

Actualmente, no existe un tratamiento específico para la infección por el virus de la viruela símica; sin embargo, se pueden recetar antivirales. La DPH ha recibido un suministro limitado de la vacuna, que debe administrarse en dos dosis con 28 días de diferencia. Aquellos que corren el mayor riesgo de exposición al virus incluyen:

  • Personas que han sido identificadas como contacto de alguien con viruela símica
  • Personas que saben que una de sus parejas sexuales en las últimas dos semanas fue diagnosticada con viruela símica
  • Personas que tuvieron múltiples parejas sexuales en las últimas dos semanas en un área donde se sepa de viruela símica

Hasta la primavera de 2022, los casos de viruela símica eran raros en los Estados Unidos. Hoy, hay más de 2300 casos en todo el país, y Delaware anunció su primer caso el 12 de Julio de 2022, que involucra a un paciente de 41 años del condado de New Castle.

Signos y Síntomas

Los síntomas de la viruela símica son similares, pero más leves que los síntomas de la viruela. Los síntomas generalmente comienzan dentro de las tres semanas posteriores a la exposición al virus. La mayoría de las personas que contraen viruela símica desarrollarán una erupción y algunas desarrollarán síntomas similares a los de la gripe de antemano. Los síntomas similares a los de la gripe pueden incluir fiebre, dolor de cabeza, dolores musculares y de espalda, dolor de garganta, tos, ganglios linfáticos inflamados, escalofríos o agotamiento. Si alguien tiene síntomas similares a los de la gripe, por lo general desarrollará una erupción de uno a cuatro días después.

Si sospecha que está sintiendo algún síntoma asociado con viruela símica, debe:

  • Comuníquese con su proveedor de atención médica y discuta sus síntomas y preocupaciones.
  • Autoaíslese hasta que todas las lesiones se hayan resuelto, las costras se hayan caído y se haya formado una nueva capa de piel intacta.
  • Evite tener intimidad con los demás.
  • Haga una lista de tus contactos cercanos e íntimos en los últimos 21 días.

Para prevenir infectarse con viruela símica:

  • Evite el contacto cercano de piel con piel con personas que tengan un sarpullido que se parezca al de la viruela símica.
  • No toque el brote o costras de una persona con viruela símica.
  • No bese, abrace, ni tenga relaciones sexuales con alguien con viruela símica.
  • No comparta cubiertos o platos comer con una persona con viruela símica.
  • No manipule ni toque juegos de sabana, toallas o prendas de una persona con viruela símica.
  • Lávese las manos con frecuencia con agua y jabón o use un desinfectante para manos a base de alcohol.

Para aprender más sobre el manejo, programas y recursos de prevención sobre viruela símica, visite: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/epi/emerginginfectiousdiseases.html.


Delaware Division Of Public Health Reports Two New Cases Of Monkeypox; Risk To Public Remains Low

DOVER, DE (July 21, 2022) ­– The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is announcing the state’s second and third cases of the monkeypox virus (MPX). Both cases are considered probable pending confirmatory testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This week, DPH received test results showing that a 46-year-old Sussex County man tested positive for MPX. The patient did not report any travel, and first reported symptoms on July 18. DPH is working to contact the patient to inform them about treatment options and interview them to obtain a list of possible contacts.

Additionally, DPH received test results this week showing that a 25-year-old Kent County man tested positive for MPX. The patient did not report any travel, and first reported symptoms on July 14. The patient has been advised to self-isolate until lesions have fallen off and new skin appears. 

“The overall risk to the public is low and remains low,” said DPH Interim Director Dr. Rick Hong. “MPX is transmitted through close intimate contact with individuals who have rashes or flu-like symptoms. We urge people to educate themselves about this rare disease, including how it is spread, and to help prevent exposure. DPH will continue to work with medical providers to screen and identify individuals for MPX testing. And we will prioritize our limited supply of vaccine for people who have been exposed to MPX ​for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).”

Beginning July 21, DPH will operate a hotline for individuals with specific concerns because of symptoms or possible exposure. The hotline number is 866-408-1899 and the number will operate with the following hours: 

  • Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for the monkeypox virus infection​; however, antivirals, can be prescribed. DPH has received a limited supply of the vaccine, which needs to be given in two doses 28 days apart. Those who are at the highest risk of exposure to the virus include:

  • People who have been identified as a contact of someone with MPX
  • People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past two weeks was diagnosed with MPX
  • People who had multiple sexual partners in the past two weeks in an area with known MPX

Until spring 2022, MPX cases were rare in the United States. Today, there are more than 2,300 cases nationwide, with Delaware announcing its first case on July 12, 2022, involving a 41-year-old New Castle County patient.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of MPX are similar to but milder than the symptoms of smallpox. Symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. Most people who contract MPX will develop a rash, and some will develop flu-like symptoms beforehand. The flu-like symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes, chills, or exhaustion. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they usually will develop a rash one to four days later.

If you suspect you are experiencing any symptoms associated with MPX you should immediately:

  • Contact your health care provider and discuss your symptoms and concerns.
  • Self-isolate until all lesions have resolved, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed.
  • Avoid being intimate with others.
  • Make a list of your close and intimate contacts in the last 21 days.

To prevent infection with MPX:

  • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like MPX.
  • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with MPX.
  • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with MPX.
  • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with MPX.
  • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with MPX.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

To learn more about MPX management and prevention programs and resources, visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/epi/emerginginfectiousdiseases.html.

 

 


Delaware Division Of Public Health Reports First Case Of Monkeypox In State

DOVER, DE (JULY 12, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health’s (DPH) is announcing the state’s first case of the monkeypox virus (MPX). This week, DPH received test results showing a 41-year-old New Castle County man tested positive for MPX. This positive case is considered probable pending confirmatory testing by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Delaware man did not report any travel or exposure to someone known to have MPX but is believed to have been exposed to the virus after close intimate contact with an individual in early July.

The individual is self-isolating and DPH is working with him to identify any possible close contacts. Currently, DPH is working with the CDC to confirm the course of treatment for this individual.  

“The Delaware Division of Public Health has prepared to respond to MPX cases,” said DPH Interim Director Dr. Rick Hong. “As we work to confirm our first case in the state, we encourage Delawareans to be aware of being in close intimate contact with individuals who have rashes or flu-like symptoms. We will continue to monitor this situation closely.”

MPX is a rare disease caused through infection with the monkeypox virus. It can make you sick, causing a rash, which may look like pimples or blisters, often with an earlier flu-like illness. Transmission of MPX occurs when a person encounters the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

The overall risk of MPX is low, generally caused by close intimate contact. However there are other ways it can spread including:

  • direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids
  • respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex
  • touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids
  • pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta
  • It’s also possible for people to get MPX from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by preparing or eating meat or using products from an infected animal.

The incubation period of the illness (time from infection to symptoms) is typically seven to 14 days but can as long as 21 days. The illness itself typically lasts two to four weeks and is rarely fatal. People who do not have symptoms cannot spread the virus to others.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of MPX are similar to, but milder than, the symptoms of smallpox. Symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. Most people who contract MPX will develop a rash, and some will develop flu-like symptoms beforehand. The flu-like symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes, chills, or exhaustion. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash one to four days later.

If you suspect you are experiencing any symptoms associated with MPX you should immediately:

  • Contact your health care provider – mention your concerns
  • Self-isolate until all lesions have resolved, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed
  • Avoid being intimate with others
  • Make a list of your close and intimate contacts in the last 21 days

Currently, there is no specific treatment for monkeypox virus infection. Instead, smallpox vaccine, antivirals, and vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) can be used.  CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been diagnosed with or exposed to MPX and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to the virus, including:

  • People who have been identified as a contact of someone with MPX
  • People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks has been diagnosed with MPX
  • People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known MPX
  • People whose jobs may expose them to MPX such as laboratory, and some health care or public health workers

To prevent infection with MPX:

  • Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like MPX.
  • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with MPX.
  • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with MPX.
  • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with MPX.
  • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with MPX.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

 

To learn more about MPX management and prevention programs and resources, visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/epi/emerginginfectiousdiseases.html or call DPH’s Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology 24/7 emergency contact number at 888-295-5156.

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.


Delaware Division Of Public Health Recognized As A Healthy People 2030 Champion

DOVER, DE (July 1, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is pleased to be recognized by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as a Healthy People 2030 Champion.

As a Healthy People 2030 Champion, DPH has demonstrated a commitment to helping achieve the Healthy People 2030 vision of a society in which all people can achieve their full potential for health and well-being across their lifespan.   

ODPHP recognizes DPH as part of a growing network of organizations partnering with it to improve health and well-being at the local, state, and tribal levels.  

The goals of the national program are to:  

  • Attain healthy, thriving lives and well-being free of preventable disease, disability, injury, and premature death. 
  • Eliminate health disparities, achieve health equity, and attain health literacy to improve the health and well-being of all. 
  • Create social, physical and economic environments that promote attaining the full potential for health and well-being for all. 
  • Promote healthy development, healthy behaviors, and well-being across all life stages. 
  • Engage leadership, key constituents and the public across multiple sectors to take action and design policies that improve the health and well-being of all. 

“I am pleased that DPH is participating in the Healthy People 2030 program,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “A good life starts with good health and that is what DPH strives to deliver to all Delawareans through its programs and partnerships. DPH offers a full range of free to low-cost programs aimed at reducing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and high blood pressure. Participating in this initiative will help us reach more people.” 

“ODPHP is thrilled to recognize DPH for its work to support the Healthy People 2030 vision,” says Rear Admiral Paul Reed, MD, ODPHP Director. “Only by collaborating with partners nationwide can we achieve Healthy People 2030’s overarching goals and objectives.”   

Healthy People 2030 is the fifth iteration of the Healthy People initiative, which sets 10-year national objectives to improve health and well-being nationwide. Healthy People 2030 Champions are public and private organizations that are working to help achieve Healthy People objectives. Healthy People 2030 Champions receive official support and recognition from ODPHP.  

Visit http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph for more information on DPH programs. Visit HealthyDelaware.org for information on free or low-cost cancer screenings, blood pressure screenings, free or low-cost diabetes programing, and information and tips on leading a healthy lifestyle.

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com. Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.


Stray Cat in Smyrna Tests Positive for Rabies

DOVER (June 29, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is advising Kent County residents who live or spend time near the area of Smyrna Landing Road in Smyrna that a positive case of rabies in a stray cat has been reported. Two individuals were potentially exposed to the stray cat in the residential neighborhood. The cat was tested for rabies, which returned positive results on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. The exposed individuals have been contacted and advised to begin post-exposure prophylaxis treatment (PEP).

Since Jan. 1, 2022, DPH has performed rabies tests on 118 animals, eight of which were confirmed to be rabid, which includes two raccoons, three foxes and three cats including this positive case. DPH only announces those rabies cases for which it is possible the animal had unknown contacts with additional humans or pets.In 2021, DPH performed rabies tests on 188 animals, nineteen of which were confirmed to be rabid, which includes one dog, one deer, one fox, one cow, two skunks, three cats, four raccoons and six bats.

Anyone who thinks they might have been bitten, scratched or have encountered a cat in this area should immediately contact their health care provider or call the DPH Rabies Program at 302-744-4995. An epidemiologist is available 24/7. Anyone in the area who thinks a cat may have bitten their pet should call their private veterinarian to have their pet examined and treated, and the exposure reported to the Delaware Department of Agriculture.

Rabies is a preventable disease. DPH recommends that individuals take the following steps to prevent rabies exposure:

  • All dogs, cats and ferrets 6 months of age and older are required by Delaware law to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.
  • Pet owners can reduce the possibility of pets being exposed to rabies by keeping them indoors and not letting them roam free. It is especially important for pet owners who do allow their cats to roam outdoors to vaccinate their pets.
  • Do not touch or otherwise handle wild or unfamiliar animals, including cats and dogs, even if they appear friendly.
  • Do not keep your pet’s food or water outdoors; bowls can attract wild and stray animals.
  • Do not feed feral animals, including cats, as the risk of rabies in wildlife is significant.
  • Spaying or neutering your pet may reduce the tendency to roam or fight and, thus, reduce the chance they will be exposed to rabies.
  • Keep your garbage securely covered.
  • Consider vaccinating livestock and horses as well. It is recommended to consult with your private veterinarian if you have any questions regarding whether your animal(s) should be vaccinated against rabies. 
If You Encounter an Animal Behaving Aggressively:·    If you encounter a wild animal behaving aggressively, it is recommended you contact the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s (DNREC) Wildlife Section at 302-739-9912 or 302-735-3600. Staff will determine whether it is more appropriate to refer callers to a private nuisance wildlife control operator. A listing of nuisance wildlife control operators can be found at https://wildlifehelp.org/. Calls after hours and on weekends can be made to the 24-hour dispatch number at 800-523-3336.·    Do not throw items at the animal or make loud banging noises, which may startle the animal and cause it to attack. Instead, your initial response – if the animal is behaving in an aggressive manner or appears to be foaming at the mouth – should be to raise your hands above your head to make yourself appear larger to the animal while slowly backing away from it. If the animal starts coming toward you, raise your voice and yell sternly at it, “Get away!” If all that fails, use any means to protect yourself, including throwing an object at the animal or trying to keep it away by using a pole, sturdy stick, or any other long object.

If You Encounter a Sick or Injured Animal:

  • To report a sick or hurt wild animal, Delaware residents are asked to contact the DNREC’s Wildlife Section at 302-739-9912 or 302-735-3600. Staff will determine whether it is more appropriate to refer callers to a permitted volunteer wildlife rehabilitator.
  • If you encounter a sick stray domestic animal, such as a cat or dog, contact the Office of Animal Welfare at 302-255-4646.

For more information on the DPH rabies program, visit www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/rabies.html or call 1-866-972-9705 or 302-744-4995. For more information on rabies, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/rabies/.

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com. Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.