DOH Releases Guidance on Monkeypox and Advisory on Polio

The Department of Health (DOH) released guidance on monkeypox and polio last week in response to rising monkeypox cases and in response to a polio case in Rockland County. The monkeypox guidance includes both guidance for health care providers and guidance for non-health care congregate settings. The health care "Dear CEO/Administrator" letter reminds providers that health care personnel should not report to work if they exhibit symptoms of monkeypox. It describes the symptoms and modes of transmission and steps to take in response to close contact. The guidance for non-health care congregate settings is intended to apply to adult care facilities (ACFs) and supportive housing, as well as other settings. It provides steps to take if a case of monkeypox is identified in the setting.

The polio advisory describes the clinical presentation of polio and guidelines for health care personnel, including precautions to take and how to access testing for patients and residents.

Contact: Karen Lipson, klipson@leadingageny.org