Putnam County Reports First Case of Monkeypox Virus

Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD says, “Communicable disease staff at the health department have now completed investigation of the first monkeypox case in Putnam County.

The risk of contracting the disease for the general public remains low. Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that can cause severe illness, hospitalization and, rarely, death.

The virus is most often spread through direct contact with a rash or sores on an individual who has the virus. It can also spread through contact with clothing, bedding, and other items used by a person with monkeypox, or from respiratory droplets that can be passed through close contact. Transmission can occur during sex or other close physical contact.

If you have come into contact with someone who has the disease, contact your health care provider. Jurisdictions are allocated monkeypox vaccine doses based on need by NYSDOH.

At this time, Putnam has not been allocated any JYNNEOS vaccine from New York State, however a list of Putnam County residents who are considered at-risk for monkeypox can be found on the NY State Health Departments website. https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/zoonoses/monkeypox/vaccine.htm#

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Submitted by Carmel, NY

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