Albany County confirms first case of monkeypox

[anvplayer video=”5122994″ station=”998132″]

Albany County has confirmed its first case of monkeypox.

The Albany County Executive’s Office says the person has a history of out of state travel, and is not believed to have contracted the virus in Albany County.

The viral infection is extremely rare, and often not serious. However, it can lead to hospitalization and death if not treated.

Infection is spread through close, physical contact or contaminated objects. It lasts about two to four weeks.

There are at least 651 cases of monkeypox in New York state.