(Monkeypox is only transmitted through phsical, usually intimate, contact.)

The Minnesota Department of Health reported yesterday (July 25) there are 20 confirmed cases of monkeypox statewide, according to KARE 11 News. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has deemed monkeypox a global health emergency.

Monkeypox cases are rising rapidly, and cases are expected to continue rising. Dr. Beth Thielen, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School, said there are now 16,000 cases of monkeypox globally, spanning over 70 countries that don't usually see monkeypox, like the U.S. Thielen also noted that Minnesota's 20 cases are low compared to other states like New York, where officials report there are more than 800 cases.

What makes the outbreak unique is the degree to which it has spread through person-to-person contact. ...