NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The New Jersey Department of Health announced Monday that monkeypox was a contributing factor in the death of a North Jersey resident last month — the first virus-related death in the Garden State.
The individual was confirmed to have had monkeypox in mid-September and had a history of underlying medical conditions, according to health officials.
No additional details were made available due to privacy concerns.
The death comes after New York's health department announced last month that two New York City residents have died of monkeypox-related illnesses.
Health experts continue to emphasize that anyone can contract the virus, even though it has primarily spread among gay and bisexual men.
Those at risk of severe disease include people with weakened immune systems, children especially those under 8 years old, pregnant or nursing people and individuals with certain conditions that affect skin integrity.
Cases in New Jersey have continued to decline over the past few weeks. Officials note that the virus is still circulating and, in some cases, may cause severe illness or death.
Those who are most at risk are urged to get vaccinated. Click here for more information.
Related
Related
