Monkeypox
What is Monkeypox?
According to the CDC, Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. The Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, which causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but milder, and Monkeypox is rarely fatal. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.
Health Services
Millersville University’s Health Services is working with local health systems, the PA DOH, the CDC and commercial labs to monitor the outbreak closely and stay abreast of protocols with Monkeypox.
Health Services is taking the necessary steps to ensure the health and safety of our students by:
- screening / identifying potential Monkeypox cases who present to health services.
- once identified, provide an appropriate examination with potential testing through DOH or a commercial lab.
- working with PA DOH and CDC to provide students treatment or vaccination.
- providing basic information for students.
Information
Student Information
Any student concerned about potential Monkeypox should call MU Health Services at 717-871-5250.
Our providers can evaluate your symptoms and provide testing. Health Services will coordinate with the PA Department of Health for treatment options if needed.
- Positive cases – If a student is diagnosed with Monkeypox, they will need to isolate until the rash is gone.
- If a student needs to isolate for a suspected/confirmed case of monkeypox, they will need to return home until cleared.
Faculty/Staff Information
Faculty and staff should seek evaluation, testing and treatment through their family doctor and/or local ER. Faculty or staff who test positive should contact Human Resources at diane.copenhaver@millersville.edu.
Resources
General Resources
CDC - We recommend reviewing the resources available on the CDC website for the most up-to-date information. It is important to educate yourself about the virus and how to decrease your risk of getting sick - https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/index.html.
Student Resources- Health Services website is available here.
- The Center for Counseling & Human Development can be reached at 717-871-7821. Their website is available here.
- Campus Ministry’s website is available here.
SEAP – Employee Assistance Program