Sarah Lawrence College is closely monitoring the state of the Monkeypox virus in the area surrounding campus. A communication outlining the College's planning and preparedness regarding Monkeypox was sent to the campus community on August 29. The information on this site will be updated as necessary as public health conditions change and to remain consistent with guidance from the CDC and New York State Department of Health.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a rare virus that typically does not cause serious illness, but can result in hospitalization or death. Symptoms can include a fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle aches and backache, headache, and a rash that appears on the face, inside the mouth, or on other parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, chest, or genitals, and may initially look like pimples or blisters. The rash may be painful or itchy, and may go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
How does Monkeypox spread?
Monkeypox can be spread through prolonged skin to skin contact, contact with items that have been contaminated with fluids or sores, and/or through prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets, from a person infected with Monkeypox. The most common way the current outbreak of Monkeypox virus is transmitted is through:
- Sexual contact: oral/
anal/ genital - Close physical contact: hugging/
cuddling/ kissing - Shared cups/
utensils/ towels/ blankets/ bedding/ clothing or other objects/materials - Contact with the monkeypox rash
What should I do if I have Monkeypox symptoms?
If you are a student and suspect that you have Monkeypox symptoms, please call the Health & Wellness Center at (914) 395-2350 or log into the Patient Portal to schedule an appointment with a medical provider who will assess your symptoms and discuss testing options. Currently, testing is only recommended if you have a rash consistent with Monkeypox. Take precautions until you have been assessed by a medical provider.
Where can I get vaccinated?
Vaccination in New York State is currently only available through the Department of Health and other local health agencies. Supplies are limited, and the vaccine is currently only available to close contacts who have had a recent exposure to person(s) with Monkeypox, as well as gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and/or transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary, who are age 18 or older. Priority is also given for those with recent history of multiple or anonymous sex partners.
For those who meet this criteria, vaccines are available at local health agencies by appointment only.
Local resources are:
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you are encouraged to get vaccinated.What happens if I am diagnosed with Monkeypox?
If you are diagnosed with Monkeypox by an off campus medical provider, it is imperative that you notify the SLC Health & Wellness Center for guidance in managing your health and protecting those around you by calling the Health & Wellness Center at (914) 395-2350. The Health & Wellness Center, in partnership with Residence Life, will:
- Educate you regarding isolation guidelines and options, on or off-campus
- Provide supportive care if you remain on campus
- Assist with pain management and navigate appropriate medical care/follow up
- Discuss academic options as the length of illness can extend for a few weeks
How can I protect myself?
You can protect yourself by taking simple steps, which are especially important for anyone who may be at higher risk for severe disease, including anyone with a weakened immune system:
- Ask your sexual partners whether they have a rash or other symptoms consistent with monkeypox
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a rash or other Monkeypox-related symptoms
- If you are exposed or experience symptoms, please reach out to SLC Health & Wellness at (914) 395-2350 or log into the Patient Portal to schedule an appointment with a medical provider