WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 03: Jorge Usatorres (L) receives a dose of the monkeypox vaccine at a pop-up vaccination clinic which opened today by Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at the West Hollywood Library on August 3, 2022 in West Hollywood, California. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on August 1st over the monkeypox outbreak which continues to grow globally.
Concerned about Monkeypox? The good news is there is a vaccine available. Though you have to fit certain criteria to receive it. It’s also important to note that the risk to the majority of the public is extremely low. Additionally, the vast majority of individuals infected with Monkeypox will recover on their own. So how can you get the Monkeypox vaccine in Mecklenburg County?
The vaccine is called the JYNNEOS monkeypox vaccine. It is now available at no cost to high-risk individuals. To receive it you must be at least age 18 and older. JYNNEOS can prevent illness or lead to a reduction in symptoms. It must be given within two weeks after exposure to monkeypox to be effective.
According to Meck.gov the vaccine is being offered in the county to individuals who self-identify as high risk according to the following criteria:
- People who have been in close physical contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox in the last 14 days
- Men who have sex with men, or transgender individuals, who report any of the following in the last 90 days:
- Having multiple or anonymous sex partners
- Being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection
- Receiving HIVÂ PrEPÂ (pre-exposure prophylaxis)
You should not receive the vaccine if you are currently infected with Monkeypox. Also if you have ever had and recovered from the virus you do not need to seek out vaccination. Individuals who have recovered are believed to have long-term immunity.
Supply of the Monkeypox vaccine in Mecklenburg County is limited. You can add your name to the appointment waitlist here. Priority will be given to individuals on the waitlist.
Other ways to protect yourself include:
- Avoiding skin-to-skin or face-to-face contact, including sexual contact, with anyone who has symptoms.
- Avoiding contact with any materials, such as bedding, that has been in contact with a sick person.
- If you have contact with a person who could be sick, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.