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The City School District of Albany is providing a health update regarding the monkeypox virus after an individual in the Sheridan Preparatory Academy community exhibited potential symptoms. This individual has been tested for monkeypox and we anticipate receiving results later this week. 

Please see the below information from the . Any individuals presenting with rashes or other symptoms listed below should not attend school or work until symptoms resolve or they are cleared by their healthcare provider.

In the event of a confirmed case of monkeypox, the district, in accordance with the Albany County Health Department, will conduct all appropriate contact tracing. Additionally, any impacted learning spaces will be deep-cleaned according with .

Monkeypox is spread through close physical contact, usually skin-to-skin and, less frequently, through contacted surfaces. Anyone who feels they are at risk for contracting the virus should speak with their physician about the benefits of immunization.

Symptoms

People with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals or anus and could be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth.

• The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
• The rash can initially look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

Other symptoms of monkeypox can include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Exhaustion
• Muscle aches and backache
• Headache
• Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)

You may experience all or only a few symptoms.

• Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash.
• Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms.
• Others only experience a rash.