We are closely monitoring the global outbreak of monkeypox to plan and update our response, recommendations, and ensure we have all resources required. At this time, while still rare, monkeypox (Orthopoxvirus) has gained significant public health and media attention due to the unusual spread of cases globally, nationally and specifically in NYS.
Please refer to the following resources for the most up-to-date information about monkeypox:
- New York State Department of Health: Monkeypox in New York State
- Monkeypox information from the CDC
- Monroe County Moneypox Information and Resources
- Vaccine Availability in Monroe County
- Making Sense of Monkeypox, University of Rochester
- Monkeypox, What all New Yorkers Should Know
- CDC, Monkeypox prevention
- CDC, Safer Sex, Social Gathering and Monkeypox
What is Monkeypox?
It’s a rare, viral infection that does not usually cause serious illness, but can result in hospitalization. Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and a rash that can look like pimples or blisters. Most people infected with monkeypox will get a rash. (See photos of monkeypox rash).
How does it spread?
Monkeypox predominantly spreads through close, physical contact between people. A person with monkeypox can spread it to others from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
Who Can Get Monkeypox?
Anyone can get monkeypox. Some groups at heightened risk for severe outcomes include people with suppressed immune systems, elderly people, children under 8 years old, and people who are pregnant.
During this current outbreak, cases are primarily spreading via sex and other intimate contact. Some populations are currently affected more than others, including men having sex with men (MSM) trans-gender people, gender-nonconforming people, and nonbinary people. People within these populations who have multiple or anonymous sex partners are at higher risk of exposure.
All people sexually active with anonymous and or multiple partners should be on alert and aware of monkeypox and its transmission.
Is there a vaccine?
Yes, but supplies are limited. Vaccination in Monroe County is very limited. SUNY Brockport does not have access to the monkeypox vaccine. The Monroe County of Health is the best resource for the most up to date vaccine availability.
What can I do to protect myself?
Ask your sexual partners whether they have a rash or other symptoms of monkeypox, such as fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, or exhaustion.
Avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a rash or other monkeypox symptoms and those diagnosed with monkeypox.
Don’t share bedding, towels, clothing, utensils, or cups with a person with symptoms of monkeypox.
When eligible, get the vaccine, monitor eligibility and availability of the vaccine.
I’m experiencing symptoms—what now?
If you experience monkeypox symptoms, even if mild, isolate and contact your health care provider and/or the health center immediately.
How can I get tested for Monkeypox?
The health center provider will conduct a thorough history and discuss your need for testing.
We are able and prepared to test for Monkeypox as needed.
- Should a student present with a strong suspicion of monkeypox including a known exposure with symptoms we would be isolating that individual.
I’ve been diagnosed with Monkeypox—what now?
If you’re experiencing fever, chills or respiratory symptoms, you will need to isolate. Isolation at home is strongly encouraged as this may be a 2-4 week isolation period.
Most people improve without treatment, other than symptom management like Advil or Tylenol and oatmeal baths.