City of Dallas Statement on Monkeypox Virus Case

The City of Dallas is aware of a Dallas resident who recently returned from Africa and has been confirmed to be infected with the Monkeypox Virus. The Monkeypox Virus causes fever, rash and other flu-like symptoms, but the virus is not easy to transmit from one person to another.

At this time, there is only one known patient in Dallas and they are being treated at a local hospital. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dallas County Health and Human Services and the Texas Department of State Health Services are guiding the investigation and tracing possible contacts of the patient. Public health officials currently estimate the number of possible contacts to be very few.

Due to the patient’s recent travel history, Dallas Love Field officials are working with public health officials. Dallas Fire-Rescue paramedics are well-equipped to evaluate and care for additional symptomatic patients should there be any.

“This case is in the capable hands of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dallas County Health and Human Services and the Texas Department of State Health Services,” said City Manager T.C. Broadnax. “I trust their leadership throughout this process. Should the need arise, the City is willing and ready to assist our healthcare partners to mitigate the spread of this virus. The City will take the county’s guidance and share any important information, as needed, to keep our residents safe.”

Health authorities believe the risk to the public at this time is very low but encourages everyone to follow basic infection prevention measures, such as washing their hands regularly and staying home when sick.