The first case of Monkeypox in Putnam County has been reported.  The County Health Department communicable disease staff have completed investigation.  The Commissioner notes that the  risk of contracting the disease for the general public remains low. 

Jurisdictions are allocated monkeypox vaccine doses based on need by the New York State Department of Health. At this time, Putnam has not been allocated any, but Putnam County residents who are considered at-risk for monkeypox are eligible for vaccination at sites nearby in Westchester County. Any eligible resident who encounters difficulty acquiring a monkeypox vaccine appointment should call the Putnam County Department of Health at 845-808-1390. 

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that can cause severe illness, hospitalization and, rarely, death. The virus is most often spread through direct contact with a rash or sores on an individual who has the virus. It can also spread through contact with clothing, bedding, and other items used by a person with monkeypox, or from respiratory droplets that can be passed through close contact. Transmission can occur during sex or other close physical contact.