Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C,I-Schoharie) today announced Greene County’s first case of orthopoxvirus or “monkeypox” has been identified. Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that, while mild in many cases, can in some instances cause hospitalization or death, especially when left untreated.

Infections spread from person to person, or from contaminated object to person, and usually last between two and four weeks. Symptoms of monkeypox can include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and the formation of rashes.

As of July 19, 2022, a total of 679 confirmed orthopoxvirus/monkeypox cases have been identified in New York state, with 639 in New York City, 18 in Westchester County, five in Suffolk County, five in Nassau County, four in Monroe County, two in Erie County, one in Sullivan County, one in Chemung County, one in Rockland County, one in St. Lawrence County, one in Tompkins County and one in Albany County, according to the state Department of Health.

“While I do not feel this announcement is one that should cause people any undue fear or worry, I want the people of Greene County and elsewhere in the 102nd Assembly District to know we are aware of the spread of monkeypox and are prepared to do everything we can for those who may become affected by it,” said Tague. “What’s most important is to know about monkeypox, how it spreads, and the importance of taking action if you believe you or someone you love may be infected with the virus.”

Assemblyman Tague encourages New Yorkers to use this link to learn more about the virus, how its spread can be mitigated, and what steps residents should take if they believe they may have contracted it.