Monkeypox vaccine being snapped up in WA as cases double each week

The Washington Department of Health said monkeypox cases are doubling every 7 to 8 days, and expected to rise, as the disease continues to spread throughout the state.

However, vaccination against the virus is possible for those who have been exposed, and will open up to those who are at high risk for severe disease.

A Thursday morning news conference addressed concerns surrounding the disease, such as symptoms, access to medical care and the vulnerability of marginalized groups.

Symptoms of the monkeypox virus begin with flu-like symptoms, and later, an infected individual will develop a rash. The effects of the disease usually fade within a few days, but can be spread easily through respiratory droplets during the flu stage, prolonged contact with an infected individual or clothing and linens.

DOH said the disease has disproportionately impacted the LGBTQ+ community, particularly gay and bisexual men. However, Secretary of Health Umair A. Shah emphasized that the disease can impact anyone.

“This is a human disease and it’s not limited to any community,” he said.

DOH is talking with community groups to better understand the ways the disease is impacting people from certain communities, Shah said.

“We do believe this is not just about the disease, but about how we approach the people in concern in communities across our state,” Shah said.

DOH has already either distributed or ordered 96% of the vaccines allocated to the state. DOH’s Michele Roberts said the state is currently in Phase 3A of receiving the vaccines, with 6,900 vaccines arriving this week or next week. This makes up 40% of the 17,200 vaccines ordered. Another 30% will be available to order on Aug. 16, and the last 30% will be coming either in late August or early September.

The vaccine is available to anyone who has had direct exposure to monkeypox, and the DOH said it is hoping to expand this to cover those who are at high risk of severe illness due to the virus. However, due to an allocation limit set by the federal government, Shah said preventing the virus from spreading is much more important and impactful.

To prevent the spread of monkeypox, avoid close contact with those with rashes or flu-like symptoms. If you think you may have monkeypox, immediately contact your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, reach out to a local health department for guidance.

This story was originally published August 4, 2022 at 1:27 PM with the headline "Monkeypox vaccine being snapped up in WA as cases double each week."