All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

First probable case of monkeypox in West Virginia identified in eastern panhandle

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources has identified the first probable case of monkeypox in a resident of Berkeley County. Out of respect for patient privacy, no additional information will be released.

The United States is currently experiencing a monkeypox outbreak with over 600 cases confirmed nationwide, and there will likely be additional cases in West Virginia in the weeks ahead.

DHHR’s Office Laboratory Services conducted the initial testing that identified this probable case of the non-variola orthopox and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is conducting confirmatory testing. DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health and the Berkeley County Health Department are working to identify other individuals who may have been exposed.

“The threat to West Virginians from monkeypox is extremely low,” said Dr. Ayne Amjad, Commissioner of DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health.  “Monkeypox is much less contagious than COVID-19 and is containable particularly when prompt care is sought for symptoms.”

Monkeypox can spread through close, prolonged contact with an infected person. This may include coming into contact with skin lesions or body fluids, sharing clothes or other materials that have been used by an infected person, or inhaling respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.  Vaccine to prevent or lessen the severity of illness is available through the CDC for high-risk contacts of persons infected with monkeypox, as is antiviral treatment for patients with monkeypox.  

“Over the past month, BPH has raised awareness of monkeypox among higher risk populations, alerted medical professionals, and informed local health departments throughout the state to monitor for cases,” noted Dr. Amjad. 

For West Virginia residents that are concerned about fever, swollen glands, and a new rash, please contact your health care provider for evaluation. Health care providers should request orthopoxvirus testing for patients at the state public health laboratory by calling their local health department or DHHR’s Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services at 304-558-5358 ext. 2. 

For more information about monkeypox, visit https://oeps.wv.gov/monkeypox.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Upshur County pool splashes back from repairs, continues busy summer with activities, parties and night swims

After a multi-day closure for repairs, the Upshur County Pool is reopening with a packed summer schedule featuring lessons, parties, night swims, and new event packages, positioning it for one of its busiest seasons yet.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur welcomes new members, new president for 2025-26

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur installed Sandi LaRosa as its new president for 2025-26 after a year marked by 1,500 service hours, significant membership growth, and numerous community grants.

Kyle and Judy Lane to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary this weekend

Kyle and Judy Lane will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a gathering at Kesling Mill Lions Club on June 21, inviting friends and family to join in marking the milestone.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital welcomes Valorie Richardson as surgical services manager

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has appointed Valorie Richardson, a veteran surgical nurse and leader, as Manager of Surgical Services, citing her extensive experience and dedication to patient-centered care.

Upshur Update: Catch up on the latest local news in our June 17, 2025 podcast

This week’s Upshur Update podcast covers a new school cellphone policy, a hospital leadership hire, local student achievements, a DUI arrest, community outreach for houseless residents, a job opening, and record attendance at the Strawberry Festival.

Mother, son both earn degrees from WVWC School of Nursing

Mother and son Valerie and Noah Jordan both graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College’s School of Nursing during Commencement Weekend, celebrating their shared family tradition and commitment to nursing education and leadership.
Upshur County Courthouse

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for June 17, 2025

This week’s local highlights include a scholarship for the Class of 2026, a free Soulful Energy Festival, temporary service changes at Fish Hawk Acres, and open youth soccer registration for the fall.

Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening paddle hosted by the Buckhannon River Watershed Association

The Buckhannon River Watershed Association is inviting the public to a free, all-level Summer Solstice paddle and ice cream social on June 21, promoting community and river stewardship along a gentle four-mile river stretch.

Robert John Taylor Jr.

Robert John Taylor Jr., a devoted family man, avid outdoorsman, dedicated professional, and beloved community member, passed away at 71, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and resilience.