Vaccines remain available for risk groups.
Foto:
Joe Raedle / Getty Images
The city of NY officially declared this Wednesday the end of the mpox outbreak after specifying that the transmission has been maintained “very low” for two consecutive months.
This statement confirmed in a statement by the New York City Department of Health (DOHMH) occurs due toto the successful vaccination of more than 100,000 New Yorkers and of the community associations in matters of orientation”.
Although the outbreak is over, the health authorities clarify that the transmission of this infection continues to occur at “a very low level”.
At this point, it is necessary to clarify that mpox was the official medical name that was assigned to this virus that was initially known as “monkey or simian pox“. The World Health Organization (WHO) changed the name due to complaints of the racist and stigmatizing language it implied.
Last summer the Big Apple had been the epicenter of this nationwide outbreak. What in principle was an infection that had reached mainly white men, it began to affect mainly men of Hispanic origin.
From May 19 to December 31, 2022, 3,821 cases of mpox were reported. From a peak around 70 infected per day, went to zero reports, for much of January. Most of the cases were among people who identify as LGBQ+
In this period of time it was specified that the 35% of those infected were Hispanic and 27% African American.
“The end of the mpox outbreak is a proud moment for us in public health, and represents the best of the integration of the science and society for rapid action“said the Dr. Ashwin Vasan, DOHMH commissioner.
The strategy
The City’s strategy was aimed at combating inequalities in access to health care, homophobia, transphobia and racism.
Rapidly increased vaccination appointments in ZIP codes for areas with a high percentage of socioeconomic disparities. In addition, millions of dollars were directed to community groups that advocated and connected New Yorkers to immunization.
A mobile program was also created that administered vaccinations at more than 70 sitesincluding community wellness centers, neighborhood clinics, and youth and adult shelters.
These sites ensured that mpox vaccines were available in places that were trusted and accessible to New Yorkers at Higher Risk of Exposurealso for patients who may be discriminated against or stigmatized when seeking care.
You must know:
- New Yorkers seeking care for suspected mpox they should call their health care provider immediately.
- For those who do not have a medical provider, they can call 311 to connect to a NYC Health + Hospitals location or to access NYC Health + Hospital Virtual ExpressCare.
- Care is available in New York City regardless of immigration statusinsurance coverage or ability to pay.
