Monkeypox symptoms include minor viral symptoms such as: fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, headache, cough or congestion, muscle aches and backache followed by a rash. Monkeypox can spread to anyone. The virus usually is spread through close contact, including direct contact with Monkeypox rash, scabs, or body fluids, as well as fluids from coughing, the mouth or nose from a person infected with Monkeypox.
Although less common, there is also potential risk of transmission from touching objects and fabrics that have been used by someone with Monkeypox. Some areas to consider include objects (work tools, equipment, food service items, sports equipment, vehicles), fabrics (clothing returns, work gloves, wetsuits, towels, sheets, camp pads/mattresses), and surfaces that have been used by someone with Monkeypox.
Please continue mitigation practices to reduce transmission of all communicable diseases. This includes not sharing personal items, washing hands frequently (or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer), maintaining routine cleaning/disinfection practices, providing PPE for staff housekeeping, health areas, etc. We encourage you or your council health supervisor to consider contacting your local health department for advice before an issue arises.
Within Scouting we have been taking precautions against COVID-19 for the past 3 years. Similar screening and precautions for all viral symptoms and new rashes can help protect everyone.
Check the resources below for additional information. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at health.safety@Scouting.org.
