### Primary Article
**Health Officials Warn About Symptoms of Monkeypox**
In Baja California, no cases of monkeypox have been reported so far in 2024. However, the Ministry of Health has issued guidelines on identifying symptoms and seeking medical care.
In a statement, the state health authority noted that an epidemiological surveillance protocol is being maintained by the National Committee for Epidemiological Surveillance (Conave) to detect patients promptly.
Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, chills, headache, extreme fatigue, and muscle aches. These initial signs are followed by the appearance of swollen and prominent lymph nodes.
For treatment, patients should be kept hydrated, and symptoms should be monitored closely. It’s also crucial to control body temperature, avoid touching lesions, which are recommended to be covered with bandages or sheets, and maintain observation for 21 days following diagnosis.
José Adrián Medina Amarillas, the Secretary of Health, clarified that this virus is only spread through direct contact such as skin wounds, mucous membranes, sexual contact, and prolonged face-to-face respiratory interactions.
In 2022, there were 32 reported cases, all of which were imported. The number of cases decreased to three in 2023, with no fatalities recorded.
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### Secondary Article
**Global Surge in Monkeypox Cases Raises Concerns**
In recent months, there has been a significant increase in monkeypox cases reported globally. Health authorities are calling for vigilance as the virus spreads beyond previously known regions.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), monkeypox cases have been confirmed in several European countries, Asia, and North America. This unexpected rise has prompted public health agencies to issue advisories and initiate vaccination efforts where available.
Symptoms of monkeypox generally appear within one to two weeks of exposure and include fever, severe headaches, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, muscle aches, and severe fatigue. As the illness progresses, a rash and lesions develop, often starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.
Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s technical lead for monkeypox, emphasized the importance of early detection and isolation of cases to prevent further spread. “It is crucial to recognize symptoms early and take appropriate measures immediately,” she said.
In response to the outbreak, several countries have bolstered their surveillance and diagnostic capacities. Vaccines initially developed for smallpox may offer some protection against monkeypox, but public health leaders stress the need for continued research and resource allocation to address this growing health concern.
Public health officials recommend avoiding close contact with infected individuals and practicing good hygiene and sanitation as the primary methods for preventing infection.
For more information on monkeypox and updates on global health alerts, stay tuned to your local health department’s announcements and the World Health Organization’s advisories.