Cluster of mpox cases identified in Wisconsin; prevention resources
FOX6 News Milwaukee • • health
Key Points:
- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is urging residents to take preventive measures following recent confirmed mpox cases in northern and southeastern Wisconsin.
- Nationwide, mpox infections have spiked recently, with 535 confirmed cases across the U.S. as of May 3, 2026, and five confirmed cases in Wisconsin this year as of May 26.
- Mpox spreads through intimate, face-to-face contact, sustained skin-to-skin contact, and contact with contaminated items, typically causing a rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters, along with symptoms like fever and swollen lymph nodes.
- DHS advises individuals at higher risk—such as men who have sex with men, travelers with sexual exposure, and those in close contact with mpox cases—to consult healthcare providers about vaccination.
- Preventive steps include avoiding close contact with infected individuals and contaminated items, and monitoring for symptoms like unexplained rash or fever.