Two possible monkeypox cases at UW-La Crosse

It’s the second day of classes at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and there are two possible cases of monkeypox, according to an email sent to students Wednesday afternoon.

The email states that the two people involved are currently isolating while waiting for the test results to return.

According to the Wisconsin Heath Department, monkeypox is a viral infection typically characterized by a new unexplained rash that develops into hard, round, fluid or pus-filled skin lesions. Other symptoms include fever, muscle aches or chills, and swollen lymph nodes.

UW- L is currently working with the La Crosse Health Department, as well as Mayo Clinic Health Systems and the Student Health Center to provide contract tracing and notify anyone who may have been in close contact with those involved.

The school says it will increase cleaning and disinfecting around campus which they are doing “out of an abundance of caution.”