Mpox Warning Issued in New York City After WHO Declares Global Emergency
New Yorkers are being advised to stay alert due to a recent Mpox outbreak in Africa. The New York State Department of Health issued the warning following the World Health Organization's declaration of an Mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a global emergency on Wednesday.
The current Mpox variant, known as Clade I, has seen a surge in the DRC and has been reported in neighboring countries.
NYC Health Commissioner: City Prepared for Potential Mpox Cases
Dr. Ashwin Vasan, NYC Health Commissioner, stated that the city is well-prepared for a potential Mpox outbreak. While the current risk to New Yorkers remains low, Vasan emphasized the importance of proactive measures. He encouraged individuals at risk for Mpox exposure to get vaccinated and recommended receiving two doses for optimal protection.
Vasan also stressed the interconnectedness of the world and urged the city to be prepared for potential outbreaks. The city has online resources available for information about Mpox.
Rep. Torres Calls for Swift Action from Federal Government
Rep. Ritchie Torres, co-chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, raised concerns about potential future Mpox cases in the US and DRC in June. He expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the Biden administration to his concerns and urged immediate action from the federal government to prevent another Mpox outbreak in the US. Torres emphasized that vulnerable communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community, cannot endure another botched response to a health crisis.
NYC Successfully Vaccinated Over 100,000 During Previous Outbreak
During an Mpox outbreak in NYC in 2022 and 2023, over 100,000 people were vaccinated. Currently, there are no reported cases of Clade I Mpox in the United States.
Stay tuned for updates on the Mpox outbreak in Africa and potential implications for New York City.
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