The following message is from Sheridan Preparatory Academy Principal Zuleika Sanchez-Gayle:

The test for the monkeypox virus conducted earlier this week on a member of the Sheridan Preparatory Academy community has come back negative.

The individual was last in the building Friday and since that time had developed symptoms consistent with symptoms that can occur with monkeypox. Tests results received Wednesday have confirmed that the individual does not have the virus. 

After this potential case was reported to us late in the day Monday, out of an abundance of caution our maintenance staff conducted deep cleaning Monday night in the impacted portions of the building. This work was done in alignment with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As a reminder, please be vigilant in monitoring your children for illness and consult a medical professional if your child presents with a rash.

Monkeypox symptoms

According to the CDC, people with monkeypox get a rash that may be located on or near the genitals 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)

If you or your child experience any of the symptoms associated with monkeypox, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Students or employees experiencing any of these symptoms should stay home. 

If you have any additional questions, please visit the CDC website or contact me at (518) 475-6850 or zsanchez@albany.k12.ny.us.