Monkeypox is a rare, viral infection that does not usually cause serious illness. However, it can result in hospitalization or death. That's why health officials in New York, the U.S., and around the world are monitoring cases of monkeypox in areas that do not usually report monkeypox infections, including in New York State and Washington County.
While our communities should not be alarmed, everyone should stay informed about monkeypox - this means understanding the symptoms, how it spreads, and what to do if you are exposed.
MONKEYPOX CASE STATUS IN WASHINGTON COUNTY
CURRENT LAB CONFIRMED MONKEYPOX / ORTHOPOXVIRUS CASES: 0
Why are cases classified as "confirmed orthopoxvirus/monkeypox" cases? What does orthopoxvirus have to do with monkeypox?
Specimens from suspected monkeypox cases are typically sent by New York providers to the New York State and New York City public health laboratories. These laboratories conduct testing for orthopoxvirus, the family of viruses to which monkeypox belongs. Cases that are confirmed positive for orthopoxvirus are considered probable monkeypox cases because of the rarity of all orthopoxviruses, generally, and the presentation of symptoms, in confirmed orthopoxvirus cases, being consistent with monkeypox. Confirmed orthopoxvirus cases, or probable monkeypox cases, may be further confirmed as monkeypox through CDC testing.
Case Status data updated: 08/26/2022 12:00 PM
WHY ARE HEALTH OFFICIALS CONCERNED?
Public Health and Healthcare officials are concerned because monkeypox is spreading, and cases of monkeypox are presenting, in ways not typically seen in past monkeypox outbreaks. Although the current strain of monkeypox that is circulating in the U.S. is rarely fatal, symptoms can be extremely painful, and people might have permanent scarring resulting from the rash.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR CONTRACTING MONKEYPOX?
Monkeypox spreads through close, physical contact between people. This means anyone can get monkeypox. However, based on the current outbreak, certain populations are being affected by monkeypox more than others, including men who have sex with men (MSM).
Based on previous outbreaks of monkeypox around the world, some groups may also be at heightened risk for severe outcomes if they contract monkeypox. This includes people with weakened immune systems, elderly people, young children under 8 years of age, and pregnant people.
WHAT IF I WAS EXPOSED OR THINK I HAVE MONKEYPOX?
Those who experience symptoms consistent with monkeypox, such as characteristic rashes or lesions, should contact their health care provider for a risk assessment. This includes anyone who traveled to countries where monkeypox cases have been reported or has had contact with someone who has a similar rash, or who received a diagnosis of suspected or confirmed monkeypox.
MONKEYPOX VACCINE INFORMATION & LOCAL CLINICS
Washington County has not yet received any allocation of the Monkeypox vaccine, there are NO SCHEDULED Monkeypox Vaccination Clinics in Washington County at this time. For all the most up to date eligibility criteria and available vaccination clinics, check the link below:
MONKEYPOX SITES FROM NYS DOH, CDC
New York State Department of Health - Monkeypox Information site
CDC (Centers for Disease Control) - Monkeypox Information site