Monkeypox Cases On The Rise In NYC: Tompkins County Issues Health Alert
New York City is experiencing a surge in monkeypox cases, prompting Tompkins County Whole Health to issue a health alert, urging residents to be aware of the rising numbers.
The alert comes after 26 new cases were detected in NYC from July 7 to August 3. While Tompkins County and the Southern Tier Region have not recorded any cases of the new strain, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global public health emergency regarding a new strain and subsequent outbreak of mpox on August 14.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral infection spread through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin contact with lesions, sores, or rashes. It can also spread through contact with contaminated materials like bedding or clothing. The rash often appears as bumps or blisters on the genitals, hands, feet, chest, or face.
Who is Most At Risk?
While anyone can contract monkeypox, current trends show that it spreads most frequently among men who have sex with men, including those who identify as gay, bisexual, transgender, and nonbinary.
Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms of monkeypox include swollen lymph glands, flu-like fever, headaches, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms may appear before or after the rash, or not at all. It can take up to 21 days for symptoms to develop after exposure.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is available to prevent infection from both the new and original strains of monkeypox. It is available at Tompkins County Whole Health's Friday Immunization Clinics for anyone, regardless of insurance status.
What to Do if You Are Concerned
If you are concerned about your risk or have been experiencing symptoms, contact a healthcare provider. They can perform a risk assessment and determine the necessary steps, which may include testing. While awaiting test results, it is important to isolate to prevent further spread.
Stay informed and take precautions to protect yourself and your community.
<img src="https://i0.wp.com/ithacavoice.s3.amazonaws.com/ithacavoice/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Monkeypox-vaccines.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1" alt="A photo of a doctor administering the monkeypox vaccine." width="1200" height="800">
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