Monkeypox in NJ?

New Jersey health officials are awaiting test results to determine if a child is infected with monkeypox.

The 11-year-old boy came into contact with a pair of prairie dogs while visiting an area where the infection has spread, state officials said.

After returning home, the child developed symptoms of the infection and was examined by doctors, according to a statement from Health Commissioner Dr. Clifton Lacey.

No one else has developed symptoms at this time, Lacey said.

New Jersey officials didn't immediately release the child's condition, hometown or details about where he was suspected to have come into contact with the virus. A news conference was scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Tuesday

Nationally, health officials were working to contain the spread of the monkeypox virus, which is related to smallpox and apparently never before found in the Western Hemisphere. At least 38 cases of monkeypox are suspected or have been confirmed in three Midwest states.

The disease in humans is not usually fatal but causes rashes, fevers, chills and sores.

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