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First case of monkeypox confirmed in Onondaga County

Colorized scanning electron micrograph of monkeypox virus (green) on the surface of infected VERO E6 cells (blue).
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
/
flickr.com
Colorized scanning electron micrograph of monkeypox virus (green) on the surface of infected VERO E6 cells (blue).

The Onondaga County Health Department reported Wednesday a person has tested positive for monkeypox in the county. According to a release, the health department received noticed Tuesday evening, and the patient is now in isolation. All known contacts of the patient have been notified.

Monkeypox is spread through physical contact. Symptoms of the disease include a rash that look like pimples or blisters and is painful and itchy. The Onondaga County Health Department said people may also experience flu-like symptoms.

The county hosted a monkeypox vaccine clinic Wednesday for high risk populations and filled all available slots. The New York State Health Department points out anyone can get the viral infection, but it is currently affecting some populations more than others.

More clinics will be announced as more vaccine supply becomes available to the Onondaga County Health Department. However, federal supply is currently limited, accordingto the health department.

More information on how to identify and prevent monkeypox can be found on the New York State Department of Healthwebsite.

Katie Zilcosky is WAER’s All Things Considered host and features reporter. She also co-hosts WAER’s public affairs show Syracuse Speaks. As a reporter, she focuses on technology, economy, and identity.