BEND, OR -- Seattle health officials are investigating a presumptive case of Monkeypox in a man who recently traveled internationally. Deschutes County Health Services is coordinating its response, in the event a case is found here, "Monkeypox warrants caution," Says Erik Breon with Deschutes County Health Services, "It’s not currently a cause for alarm."

Breon stresses there are no current suspected or confirmed cases of Monkeypox in Oregon, "But, we want to work with our community partners and share information about Monkeypox and prevention strategies, and who might be a risk. We also set up our team to coordinate our response in the event of any cases in Central Oregon." According to Breon, the county is working with the Oregon Health Authority and tracking information from the CDC.

He tells KBND News,"It spreads through prolonged close, physical contact and in airborne respiratory droplets. It does not spread as easily as COVID-19." Symptoms include a rash with pus-filled blisters that starts on the face and spreads to the limbs. It also causes flu-like symptoms like fever and muscle aches.

The CDC has identified nine cases in seven states, including Washington and California.