Va's response to monkeypox - what veterans need to know | va maryland health care | veterans affairs

On May 7, 2022, the world was alerted to a confirmed case of monkeypox in the United Kingdom. Since then, the virus has spread to many countries including the United States, and the World

Health Organization has declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. On August 4, 2022, the Department of Health and Human Services declared monkeypox a Public Health

Emergency in the United States.  VA is working in close collaboration with local and state public health authorities, as well as other federal agencies like Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC), to ensure Veterans have access to testing, treatment, and prevention tools, such as antivirals and vaccines. In addition, VA is closely following clinical, infection

control, and occupational health guidance provided by the CDC. Although recent spread of monkeypox cases is alarming, the virus is far less contagious than COVID-19. Monkeypox spreads by

very close and/or prolonged contact with someone with symptoms, while COVID-19 can spread from an infected person who has no symptoms. VA will receive approximately 13,000 vials of JYNNEOS™

monkeypox vaccine from Department of Health and Human Services as early as the end of August. Once VA receives its initial allocation of the vaccine, it will begin offering the JYNNEOS™

vaccine to Veterans at risk of infection. For Veterans who need the vaccine, the series requires 2 doses per person, 28 days apart. * Due to the limited supply and to ensure availability for

Veterans who need it, most Veterans will receive their dose of the vaccine in the shallow layers between their skin (intradermal) on their forearm, as authorized by an FDA Emergency Use

Authorization. This route, which is being used across the country, uses less vaccine per person and is safe and effective. * Some Veterans who have had a type of scarring called a “keloid”

will get a dose in the upper arm that is injected in the layer of fat below the skin (subcutaneous). Any person who comes in direct skin-to-skin contact with another who is infected may

catch monkeypox. The current outbreak has, for now, disproportionately affected the gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men who should be prioritized for vaccine based on their

personal risk of exposure. VA is following CDC guidelines and prioritizing individuals for the vaccine based on their personal risk of exposure. Veterans are encouraged to contact their

primary care team for more information. MONKEYPOX FAQS