Monkeypox cases on the rise in western Washington

SEATTLE — Monkeypox cases continue to rise across the U.S., including here in Washington.

King County is reporting 83 cases.

Pierce and Snohomish County each have two confirmed cases.

Benton, Clark, Cowlitz and Lewis counties are each reporting one case.

In all, there have been 92 cases reported in Washington as of July 25, with one person from out-of-state testing positive here, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

The virus causes a rash that can look like bumps on your skin, pimples or blisters.

Some people report having a flu-like illness before they develop a rash.

Infections with the strain of monkeypox virus identified in the recent U.S. outbreak are rarely fatal, and most people should expect to recover in two to four weeks, according to Public Health — Seattle & King County.

Anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to monkeypox or has symptoms is urged to contact their healthcare provider.

Currently, there is no specific treatment approved for monkeypox.

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