Stephen F. Austin State University

This message sent on behalf of SFA's Health Services.

Dear campus community,

You might be aware that monkeypox has been declared both a global health emergency by the World Health Organization and a national emergency by the Secretary of the U.S. Health and Human Services. While there are not yet any reported cases in Nacogdoches County (there are four in our Public Health Region 4/5N as of Aug. 16), it is important we are all aware of what it is, how to avoid it and how it can be treated.

Local hospitals currently have a limited supply of tests reserved only for those who show symptoms, and there are no vaccines available locally.

We are working closely with the Texas Department of State Health Services, Nacogdoches County Office of Emergency Management, Nacogdoches Medical Center, and Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital to keep each other informed, coordinate responses and prepare to help each other through this latest health concern.

According to the CDC, symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Respiratory symptoms (e.g., sore throat, nasal congestion or cough)
• A rash on or near the genitals or anus, which can also be on the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth.

The rash goes through several stages, including scabbing, and can look like pimples or blisters. It may be painful or itchy. Most people with monkeypox get the rash, and it usually appears before the other symptoms. Sometimes it is the only symptom. Illness typically lasts for two to four weeks.

Monkeypox can spread to anyone through close, personal contact, often skin-to-skin. It can also spread though touching objects, fabrics or surfaces used by someone with monkeypox. Read more details about how it spreads on the CDC’s website.

You can protect yourself by avoiding close contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox. You can also avoid contact with objects and materials they have used, such as eating utensils, cups, bedding or clothing. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

You can also be vaccinated, though current availability is limited.

There are hot spots around the country, including the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

If an acute situation develops in Nacogdoches or at SFA, we are prepared to quickly set up operations within one to three days. We will share more details as they develop and are needed.

If you have questions or want to learn more, contact SFA’s Health Services, or visit the CDC and Texas DSHS websites.