Orange County announces 1st monkeypox case in person under 18

Orange County health officials Wednesday confirmed the county’s first case of monkeypox in a person under age 18.

No details about the case or the patient were released. Health officials said only that they are working to identify close contacts of the patient and offer vaccines to those who may have been exposed.

“Please remember that monkeypox is very uncommon in children,” Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, County health officer, said in a statement. “It is important to note that many childhood illnesses can cause rashes. If you or your children have a new or unusual rash, please follow preventive guidance and seek medical attention from a qualified health care professional for further recommendations.”

Orange County has identified a total of 126 monkeypox cases, most of them in gay men.

Health officials urged people showing symptoms of the illness to contact their health care provider, cover the rash area with clothing, wear a mask, avoid close or skin-to-skin contact with others and isolate away from family members and pets.