Another Monkeypox Case Documented in Southern Tier

A third case of Monkeypox is being reported in Tompkins County.

The Health Department announced August 9 a resident had been diagnosed and all local close contacts had been identified.  Those who had close contact with the patient will monitor themselves and be in contact with the Tompkins County Health Department for 21 days from the date of exposure.

At the end of July, Broome County announced its first case of the contagious virus that is spread through close physical contact.

Symptoms of Monkeypox include Rashes, bumps, or blisters on or around the genitals or in other areas like your hands, feet, chest, or face which are not clearly due to another known cause as well as swollen lymph glands.

Suspicion of Monkeypox is greater if flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue are present as well. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all.

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Tompkins County Public Health Director Frank Kruppa stated, “Be informed, take precautions to prevent infection, and contact your health care provider right away if you suspect you may have come in contact with someone who has the disease or if you are experiencing symptoms. We are working closely with community partners to ensure precautions are being taken and information is being shared to groups who may be at high-risk of infection.” 

Kruppa added, “Regarding vaccination, given the current limited supply, available vaccine is being prioritized for high-incidence areas and for confirmed high-risk close contacts. To date, reported Tompkins County cases have had no local high-risk close contacts, so vaccine has not yet been offered in Tompkins County. Should Tompkins County identify high-risk close contacts, we would work with NYS DOH to obtain the vaccine.”