(Radio Iowa) - The World Health Organization is declaring an international health emergency over m-pox, what used to be known as monkeypox, though -no- cases are reported in Iowa and generally, Iowans are just warned to be aware.
Brian Simmons, an infection preventionist with Gundersen Health System, says m-pox is a virus that's spread either through close contact with family members or through sexual contact. It can cause sores on different parts of the body and can be fatal, especially a new strain that's appearing primarily in African nations. Simmons says this virus shouldn't be a big worry for the majority of Iowans, though people need to stay informed.
State health officials say a limited amount of m-pox vaccines are available to eligible individuals in 13 Iowa counties.