Monkeypox: University of Pittsburgh reports first known case

The University of Pittsburgh has confirmed its first reported case of monkeypox.

In a Wednesday email sent to students and families, Pitt said a student tested positive on Monday.

The student is isolating and recovering.

Pitt has notified close contacts of the student, the email says. The university’s Student Health Services and the Allegheny County Health Department are monitoring the case.

Pitt students began moving in on Aug. 20. The university’s first day of classes was Monday.

Pitt does not plan on sending public communications for each new case, according to the email.

Since June, Allegheny County has reported 56 cases of the viral disease. Symptoms include rash, fever, chills and aches.

The disease, which is rarely fatal, spreads through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Information about monkeypox testing and vaccinations can be found on the Allegheny Health Department’s website.

Pitt students can schedule an appointment to be tested by calling Student Health Services at 412-383-1800.