HHSC Urges Providers to be Vigilant for Monkeypox in LTC Communities

Attention provider types: ALF, DAHS, HCS, HCSSA, ICF/IID, NF, PPECC and TxHmL.

HHSC is reminding long-term care providers to be alert for people who have rashes and other symptoms consistent with monkeypox. Providers should follow CDC guidance on monkeypox.

Monkeypox is immediately reportable to the Department of State Health Services upon suspicion of infection.

For testing:

  • Commercial testing is available and prior permission is not required.  
  • If there is the need for state agency or Laboratory Response Network testing, LTC providers should contact either their local health department or DSHS. 

If monkeypox is suspected by a clinician or local health department, LTC providers should contact DSHS at (512) 776-7676 for testing approval.

Nursing Facilities (NFs) and Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) only: In addition to the DSHS reporting requirements, NFs and ALFs must report confirmed cases of monkeypox to HHSC Complaint and Incident Intake (CII).

LTC providers should contact either their local health department or DSHS regional offices for questions regarding monkeypox.

Email questions on testing, monitoring, postexposure prophylaxis and treatment to eaidumonitoring@dshs.texas.gov.

Email questions to ltcrpolicy@hhs.texas.gov.