Governor Hochul issued an Executive Order declaring a State Disaster Emergency in response to the contagious disease outbreak caused by the monkeypox virus. An Informational Letter (INF) was released by OPWDD on this new public health concern. Click here to access this document with information on monkeypox symptoms, spread, prevention, treatment, and vaccination.

Local NYS health departments are actively responding to the spread of monkeypox contracted through close, physical contact between people. Click here for additional information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on how the monkeypox virus can spread.

There is a two-dose vaccine approved by the FDA to prevent monkeypox infection for people 18 years and older. Please contact your healthcare provider if you would like more information.

The New York State Department of Health has established a text message alert system for anyone who wishes to receive monkeypox text alerts. Text “MONKEYPOX” to 81336 for English alerts and “MONKEYPOXESP” for Spanish alerts. Important links to additional information and resources on this topic can be sourced in the OPWDD 7.28.22 INF.