Experts say monkeypox is nothing to worry about in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Nebraska now has 21 confirmed cases of monkeypox, and national numbers hit 15,000 on Monday.

However, Dr. David Quimby of CHI Health and Creighton University, says we shouldn’t be too concerned about those rising numbers just yet.

“You don’t honestly have to worry about the huge emergence and large expansion, like with a true respiratory-spread illness,” Quimby said.

He also says your normal day-to-day routine shouldn’t pose much of a risk.

The majority of cases are caused by direct skin-to-skin contact, but it can be passed through bedding or other shared products.

Doctors also say universities need to be aware and educated about monkeypox now that college students are returning to campus across the state.

Rachel Hovious, a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, says she feels like the recent COVID-19 pandemic has made her ready for what may come.

“I’m not too worried about it. I mean, we went through two years of COVID,” Hovious said. “I think we’re prepared for anything, and I don’t really think it’s much to be worried about.”

Dr. Renuga Vivekanandan of CHI Health and Creighton said it’s important for health care providers in Nebraska to learn the history of monkeypox, and for everyone to be aware of what the rash looks like.

The CDC says the rash will look like pimples or blisters that are itchy or painful.

Other symptoms include fever, chills, exhaustion and headache.

“In Nebraska, I think we really have to focus on identifying patients with monkeypox and helping them on early in the disease process,” Vivekanandan said.

There are tests available in Nebraska, so experts encourage you to bring it up with your health care provider if you think there is a chance you have it.

Doctors say high-risk groups are able to get vaccinated, as well as those who have been exposed.

They also say it’s important to get checked out as soon as possible if you think you may have it, so you can be treated.

For now, Hovious says she’s going about her semester as usual.

“Honestly, just living my life, going to class, doing what I normally do,” Hovious said.

For more information about monkeypox, visit the CDC website.