Final answer:
The statement about monkeypox in Illinois and Wisconsin in 2003 is true. This outbreak was significant as it was the first instance of human monkeypox outside of Africa, linked to infected prairie dogs sold as pets.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that monkeypox broke out in Illinois and Wisconsin in 2003 is true. Monkeypox is a disease that is caused by the monkeypox virus and is similar to smallpox but typically less severe. This particular outbreak in the United States was the first time that human monkeypox was reported outside of Africa.
The virus spread through close contact with infected prairie dogs that were sold as pets. These prairie dogs had been housed with animals imported from Ghana, which were likely the source of the virus.
Outbreaks like these are closely monitored and investigated by organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which plays a key role in protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.
Prior to this, the CDC has been involved in identifying and addressing various other diseases and outbreaks, such as the emergence of HIV/AIDS in 1981, smallpox eradication efforts, and more recently, the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa.
Monitoring and managing such diseases is critical to prevent widespread epidemics, which can have significant health, social, and economic impacts. Vaccination and public health awareness are vital tools in combating these infectious diseases and preventing future outbreaks.