JCDH EXPANDS MONKEYPOX VACCINE OPERATIONS TO MEET CURRENT DEMAND
Jefferson County, AL—August 22, 2022: Monkeypox is a
legitimate public health issue that is relevant to all people. Everyone can
acquire Monkeypox, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Starting on August 22, 2022,
the Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH) will expand our Monkeypox
vaccine operations to meet the current demand for the vaccine. On August
9, 2022, the United States Food and Drug Administration announced an Emergency
Use Authorization (EUA), allowing an expanded supply of the JYNNEOS monkeypox
vaccine. This EUA increases our inventory of vaccines by up to a factor
of five (5).
Currently,
the following groups are eligible for vaccination:
· Persons who had exposure to
a known case of Monkeypox in the last 14 days
· Persons who work in a
laboratory setting who deal directly with monkeypox specimen samples
· Persons who are gay,
bisexual, transgender, gender non-conforming, gender non-binary, or other male
who had male-to-male sexual contact
· Persons who are sex workers
If
you meet any of the above criteria and are interested in receiving your
vaccine, you may call 205-241-JCDH (5234) to schedule an appointment.
JCDH is also reminding the general
public of the following Monkeypox Prevention Steps:
·
If you have a new or unexplained rash or other
symptoms, see your healthcare provider for medical attention and evaluation
·
Avoid close,
skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like Monkeypox
o
Do not touch the rash
or scabs of a person with Monkeypox
o
Do not kiss, hug,
cuddle or have sex with someone with Monkeypox
·
Avoid contact with
objects and materials that a person with Monkeypox has used
o
Do not share eating
utensils or cups with a person with Monkeypox
o
Do not handle or touch
the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with Monkeypox
·
Wash your hands often
o
Wash your hands often
with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before
eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.
Find out if you are eligible for the Monkeypox vaccine here.