First case of monkeypox registered in Monroe County

Rochester, New York – A day after Erie County announced its first case, Monroe County recorded its first case of monkeypox.

According to Monroe County’s health department, the risk to the public remains low.

“Due to social networks and patterns of exposure in the current global outbreak, men who have sex with men are at higher risk of contracting the virus at this time. However, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and children under the age of 8 are at higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms if they contract the virus,” according to a statement.

Monkeypox is spread through:

Direct contact with monkeypox sores or rashes through intimate or skin-to-skin contact.

Contact with objects or fabrics (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels) that have been used by someone with monkeypox.

Respiratory droplets or oral fluids from someone with monkeypox. The respiratory droplets are believed to only travel a few feet and are of primary concern among those who have very close or prolonged contact.

Symptoms of monkeypox include rashes, bumps, or blisters, along with fever and headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In the current outbreak, rashes or bumps often occur in the genital or peri-anal area and may take place without fever or other flu-like symptoms. Individuals with any of these symptoms should stay home and contact their health care provider.

According to the health department, to protect yourself, ask your sexual partners whether they have a rash or other symptoms consistent with monkeypox, and avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a rash or other monkeypox-related symptoms.