Public Safety

Texas Hosts First Monkeypox Death In The U.S.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed in a press release the first death of a person diagnosed with monkeypox in the state. The person is an adult patient from Harris County who, according to the release, was severely immunocompromised. According to the most recent update of the DSHS, 1598 persons have been diagnosed with monkeypox in Texas since the start of the outbreak. 

Dr. John Hellerstedt, DSHS Commissioner, said that the case is under investigation to determine what role monkeypox played in the death of this immunocompromised person. Because monkeypox is not a life-threatening disease for the majority of people, but it is particularly serious for those with weakened immune systems. “We continue to urge people to seek treatment if they have been exposed to monkeypox or have symptoms consistent with the disease”, said Hellerstedt. 

The DSHS also pointed out that people should contact their health care provider if they have a fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and a new, unexplained rash. Also, people who are diagnosed with monkeypox should stay home and avoid close contact with others until the rash has fully resolved, the scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed. 

Finally, the press release reminded us that people who have been exposed to a known case of monkeypox are eligible to get the JYNNEOS vaccine and treatment with the antiviral medication TPOXX. 

RA Staff

Written by RA News staff.

Recent Posts

Fifth Circuit Reopens Case Over West Texas A&M Drag Show Ban

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will…

10 hours ago

Sarah Eckhardt Launches Congressional Campaign in Texas’ 10th District

Texas state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, a Democrat…

10 hours ago

Texas Sues Tylenol Makers Over Autism Allegations

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed…

15 hours ago

Leaked Messages Reveal Culture of Hate in Young Republican Circles

Last week, leaders within the Young Republican…

1 day ago

Hope Andrade Named New Alamo Trust CEO Following Rogers’ Resignation

Following the resignation of Kate Rogers as…

1 day ago

Cornyn’s Gun-Safety Deal Now Threatens His 2026 GOP Primary

As the Texas Senate GOP primary approaches,…

1 day ago

This website uses cookies.