The CDC raised the Monkeypox Alert to Level 2 and recommended practicing enhanced precautions when traveling. The health organization notes that the risk to the general public is low.
Monkeypox is a rare virus similar to smallpox but with less severe symptoms. It was first discovered in 1958 with an outbreak in colonies of monkeys that were being kept for research.
As of June 5, 2022, the virus has spread to 29 countries across the globe, including the U.S., Mexico, Australia, and numerous European countries, with 911 confirmed cases by publicly available sources.
Per the CDC, travelers should, among other things:
– wear a mask
– avoid close contact with sick people, including those with skin lesion
– avoid contact with dead or live wild animals