Today, Explained Monkeypox is a queer emergency
Aug 4, 2022
Keren Landman, a senior health reporter at Vox, and Joseph Osmundson, a clinical assistant professor at NYU, delve into the monkeypox crisis primarily affecting queer communities. They discuss the WHO's declaration of a global health emergency and the dire lack of resources like vaccines and testing. The conversation highlights the stigma surrounding public health responses, draws parallels to the HIV/AIDS crisis, and stresses the need for effective communication and equitable healthcare access for marginalized populations.
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Monkeypox Declared a Public Health Emergency
- The WHO declared monkeypox a public health emergency due to its unusual spread and need for international response.
- This declaration signifies the need for global cooperation, especially regarding vaccine and treatment allocation.
Emergency vs. Pandemic
- Declaring a public health emergency mobilizes resource-rich countries to aid those with less access to vaccines and treatments.
- A pandemic is a widespread, out-of-control outbreak, while an emergency declaration suggests a remaining window of opportunity for intervention.
Prevention Beyond Vaccines
- Vaccines are not the only tool for monkeypox prevention; open communication about sexual health and risk awareness are crucial.
- Talking to partners about sexual history and checking for symptoms are important steps in risk reduction.
