The US government on Thursday announced the upcoming distribution of monkeypox vaccines at LGBT+ pride marches and other events to better combat the spread of the virus among the most affected populations.
The number of cases of monkeypox since May has risen to more than 13,500 in the United States and, according to the latest available data, 98% of cases are men and 93% are men who say they have had sexual contact with other men . Black and Hispanic populations are also more affected.
The federal government is “launching a pilot program that will draw up to 50,000 doses from the national stockpile for distribution at (Gay) Prides or other events,” White House official Bob Fenton, who is responsible for coordination at the federal government, told reporters. fight against monkeypox.
New doses coming soon
This announcement refers in particular to the Black Pride in Atlanta and the Southern Decadence in New Orleans, two events scheduled between the end of August and the beginning of September. The start of the academic year could promote the spread of the virus this fall.
The doses will be distributed to the health authorities of each state if they so request, depending on the magnitude of the events and their ability to reach those most exposed.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Rochelle Walenksy said recipients of these doses will be reminded that the distributed Jynneos vaccine works with two injections, and that the first does not provide immediate protection.
The United States has distributed about 1 million doses to local authorities and 1.8 million new doses will be available starting next week, Bob Fenton said. The government will also make available 50,000 treatments of an antiviral, Tpoxx or tecovirimat.
Source: BFM TV
