Columbia Health Provides Guidance on Monkeypox Virus

Today, Columbia Heath posted information and resources on monkeypox, a disease that is caused by a virus, which was first discovered in the 1950s in a colony of research monkeys in Europe.

With numerous cases confirmed in New York City, the surrounding areas, as well as other parts of the United States and many countries around the world, New York State Commissioner of Health Dr. Mary T. Bassett has declared monkeypox an imminent threat to public health in the state.

"This declaration means that local health departments engaged in response and prevention activities will be able to access additional state reimbursement, after other federal and state funding sources are maximized, to protect all New Yorkers and ultimately limit the spread of monkeypox in our communities," Bassett said. 

As Columbia Health noted, the university is working closely with city, state, and federal health officials to monitor a multi-country outbreak of the disease.