First Case of Orthopoxvirus/Monkeypox in Rockland County, No Risk to County Residents

Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert announce that a county resident has been diagnosed with Orthopoxvirus/Monkeypox.

Testing for orthopoxvirus was conducted at the NYS's Wadsworth Center Laboratory. This confirmed case is limited to one individual who has not had any contact with anyone locally and poses no risk to county residents.

As of June 28, a total of 61 confirmed orthopoxvirus/monkeypox cases — a designation established by CDC — have been identified in New York State including 55 in New York City, 4 in Westchester County, 1 in Sullivan County and 1 in Chemung County.

Monkeypox is a rare viral illness that does not usually cause serious illness but may result in hospitalization or death. Monkeypox cases in this outbreak have involved a rash (often in the genital and peri-anal regions), and may also include other symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and pain when swallowing, before or after the rash appearance. Most infections last two to four weeks.

Those who experience symptoms consistent with monkeypox, such as characteristic rashes or lesions, should contact their health care provider for a risk assessment. This includes anyone who traveled to countries where monkeypox cases have been reported or has had contact with someone who has a similar rash or received a diagnosis of suspected or confirmed monkeypox.

"Following measles and COVID-19, I want to assure residents that our Department of Health is well prepared to track and manage this situation and respond accordingly," said County Executive Ed Day.

"The Rockland County Department of Health is closely monitoring this case, which is limited to just one individual. There is no identified risk to any county residents. As we have shown with COVID-19, staff at our local department of health remain vigilant and ready to respond to communicable diseases of all types, and promptly inform our residents to safeguard their health," said Dr. Ruppert.

County residents can learn more about Monkeypox at the New York State Department of Health's website at health.ny.gov/monkeypox.