Gov. Hochul extends monkeypox state of emergency to Oct. 27

Gov. Kathy Hochul has extended New York's monkeypox state of emergency through Oct. 27. It was slated to expire Tuesday.

News 12 Staff

Sep 27, 2022, 9:56 AM

Updated 789 days ago

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Gov. Kathy Hochul has extended New York's monkeypox state of emergency through Oct. 27. It was slated to expire Tuesday.

Doctors say they seem to be getting a handle on the virus, but the outbreak is not over just yet. As of this past Friday, there were nearly 25,000 cases of monkeypox in all 50 states, according to federal health experts.
Supplies of the vaccine have improved and new cases have been decreasing steadily for weeks. The daily average went from more than 500 cases in August down to just over 200 last week.
In the Hudson Valley, Westchester County has the highest number of cases at 86. Ulster County the lowest number at just two cases.
Monkeypox spreads through close, physical contact between people. Certain populations are being affected more than others, including men who have sex with men.
Doctors say people at higher risk for monkeypox infection should consider vaccination. There are also antiviral medications designed to treat monkeypox.
Some people who spoke with News 12 say that while they are being vigilant when it comes to monkeypox, they're not necessarily changing their daily routine.
"I'm a blue-collar guy, I work every day. Whether the monkeypox is out there, people still have to get to their jobs," says Justin Brunco, of Elmsford.
There are monkeypox vaccine clinics across the region, including most county health departments, but you have to make an appointment.