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ACCKWA hosting monkeypox information session

It will provide information and answer questions regarding virus
Jonathan Strom
Jonathan Strom
monkeypox-virus-2
Monkeypox is a rare but potentially serious viral illness that typically begins with flu-like illness and swelling of the lymph nodes and progresses to a rash on the face and body. Photo/Science Photo Library

The AIDS Committee of Cambridge, K-W & Area (ACCKWA) will host an info session Thursday, August 18 pertaining to monkeypox.

The session will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. over zoom, and will be posted on ACCKWA's YouTube page following the event.

Ruth Cameron is the executive director of ACCKWA, and explained what the session will entail.

"What we want to do is make sure that people have some good, quality facts, with the most up-to-date information we understand about just how transmissible this virus is," Cameron said.

Monkeypox spreads when individuals have close contact with each other. The vast majority of cases have been reported among males.

Cameron said while the virus is mostly impacting men who have sex with other men, it's important to acknowledge there are other ways the virus can be transmitted.

"There are other activities that involve close, prolonged contact," said Cameron. "Therefore, if someone who is infectious engages in those activities, monkeypox could be transmitted that way as well."

Along with transmission, the session will also go over a number of topics including monkeypox symptoms, prevention strategies, and where an individual can go for further information if they have concerns.

Cameron added that education is one of the best ways to avoid stigmatizing the virus, so that anyone is comfortable asking questions about it. 

"We don't want stigma to prevent anybody from getting the help that they need," she said. "We want people to feel safe and comfortable seeking out information, so they can take care of themselves and those that are close to them."