San Francisco, New York on alert as Monkeypox cases rise
San Francisco and New York state officials declared health emergencies. Federal officials...
Monkeypox outbreak emergency
The quickly growing monkeypox epidemic in New York was deemed a state disaster emergency; by Governor Kathy Hochul late on Friday as the government rushed to supply immunizations to stop the virus’ spread.
The action was taken as the number of monkeypox cases in New York drew close to 1,400; with the majority of illnesses occurring in the city, which is the core of the outbreak in the country.
In response to the emergency declaration, Hochul stated in a statement; “more than one in four monkeypox cases in our country are in New York State.
We need to deploy every weapon; in our armoury as we respond.”
Late last week, the head of the World Health Organization labelled the virus a worldwide health emergency. Over 20,000 cases of monkeypox have been found worldwide as of Wednesday; in 77 different nations. There are presently 4,600 instances that have been documented in the US.
In particular, the executive order broadens the list of professionals who are qualified to deliver monkeypox vaccinations; including EMS workers, pharmacists, and midwives. Additionally, it compels providers to provide immunisation data to the state Health Department; and permits doctors and registered nurse practitioners to issue standing orders for vaccinations; that are not patient-specific.
Friday sees the release of more than 780K doses of the monkeypox vaccine; and San Francisco issues an emergency declaration.
In the meanwhile, San Francisco’s mayor on Thursday proclaimed a state of emergency; due to the rising number of cases in the city, where 261 of California’s 800 cases are located.
To help the citizens of San Francisco, we urgently need immunizations, according to Mayor London Breed.
According to federal health experts, the decision to designate monkeypox a public health emergency; which would free up additional resources, is still under consideration.
Monkeypox vaccination supplies increased considerably in recent weeks after the federal government; first failed to get enough of them earlier in the month. This culminated on Friday with the release of 780,000 doses nationwide.
110,000 doses, including roughly 30,000 outside of New York City; sent to New York.
Early this week, despite a shortage of vaccines, there was an extreme demand for injections; in the greater New York City region and many upstate counties, with individuals booking available appointments within hours.
According to the present epidemic, however, some groups are more commonly prone to infection by monkeypox than others; especially males who engage in male-to-male sexual activity.
Some populations may also be more likely to experience catastrophic results if they catch monkeypox; according to data from previous outbreaks of the disease around the world. This includes those with compromised immune systems, New Yorkers over the age of 65; small children under the age of 8, and women who are pregnant.
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