Monkeypox Outbreak a Public Health Concern

Dear Rollins Community, 

Among the many important issues of public health significance at this moment, we are continuing to see increased cases of monkeypox in countries where this virus does not typically occur, including in the United States. There are now 312 cases currently reported in Georgia. We wanted to be sure you were aware of the following information: 

• All populations are susceptible to monkeypox, which spreads by close, personal, and/or intimate contact with affected people. 
• Symptoms may include a rash (often resembling pimples or blisters) sometimes accompanied by a flu-like illness and generally appear within three weeks of exposure to the virus. 
• Monkeypox generally lasts two to four weeks. 
• While monkeypox is rarely fatal, it can be more serious for children under 8, people with a history of eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

This outbreak is a public health concern that impacts all of us. Unfortunately, as with many other areas of public health, this outbreak has disproportionally affected particular communities. While many of the cases have appeared in gay and bisexual men, everyone is at risk of contracting monkeypox, and we can all be part of a prevention solution. I encourage you to please review the prevention, treatment, and informational resources put out by the CDC, and to view this Q&A about the virus with Drs. Carlos del Rio and Jodie Guest. This is a dynamic situation and we will continue to monitor potential impacts on our Rollins community as we move to the start of the academic year. 

Thank you for your help in keeping our community a healthy and welcoming place to work and learn.

Sincerely,

M. Daniele Fallin, PhD
James W. Curran Dean of Public Health