Monkeypox - What You Need to Know
Monkeypox is a disease caused by a virus not commonly seen in the United States. However, monkeypox cases recently have been found in the United States. As of today, 8/4/22, there are no confirmed cases in Chautauqua County. We are monitoring the situation and are working with public health authorities to stop the further spread of the current monkeypox outbreak. If we all know the facts and work together, we can help to stop the spread of monkeypox.
What are the symptoms of monkeypox?
Symptoms of monkeypox can include:
Rashes, bumps, or blisters on or around the genitals or in other areas like your hands, feet, chest, or face.
Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all.
How does monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox is spread through close, physical contact between individuals. This includes:
Direct contact with monkeypox sores or rashes on an individual who has monkeypox.
Respiratory droplets or oral fluids from someone with monkeypox, particularly for those who have close contact with someone or are around them for a long period of time.
It can also be spread through contact with objects or fabrics (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels) that have been used by someone with monkeypox.
Treatment Options:
Antiviral medications exist to treat monkeypox, which may be appropriate for some people. Vaccines exist that can help reduce the chance and severity of infection in those who have been exposed.
Vaccine supply from the Federal government is in very limited supply. New York State is committed to an equitable distribution of vaccine, and eligibility is currently focused on individuals with known or likely exposure in areas with the highest number of cases. As of today, 8/2/22, there are no confirmed cases in Chautauqua County and therefore our County has not yet been distributed vaccines.
FHMS will remain in contact with local and state officials and will provide updates as they become available.
When to call your Doctor:
If you have been notified that you are a direct contact of someone diagnosed with monkeypox or if you develop any symptoms consistent with monkeypox.
New Yorkers can sign-up for monkeypox text alerts from New York State by texting “MONKEYPOX” to 81336 or “MONKEYPOXESP” for texts in Spanish. By providing a zip code, New Yorkers can also opt-in for location-based messages, which may include information on vaccines and care in your area.
