The so-called “monkeypox” is spreading, and several countries are starting to implement measures to limit the spread while also offering therapies to infected individuals. and also to offer therapies to infected individuals. In fact, monkeypox has been declared by the US Department of Health and Human Services to be a public health emergency.

Fortunately, two weapons to fight this virus are already available: a vaccine (the Jynneos vaccine) which is now studied as intradermal injection, and an antiviral drug, known as TPOXX, available to treat the most severe cases of monkeypox.

“US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra declared monkeypox a public health emergency. There have been more than 6600 reported cases of monkeypox in the United States, up from fewer than 5000 cases reported last week.

Monkeypox is a virus that is similar to smallpox. Those who catch the virus usually experience fever-like symptoms, followed by red lesions on the body, which can raise and develop pus. In the current outbreak, the infection is spreading primarily among gay and bisexual men, as well as men who have sex with men. There are between 1.6 and 1.7 million Americans in this high-risk group.

The Jynneos vaccine is being distributed to protect against severe illness from monkeypox and is primarily being given to those with the greatest risk of catching the virus.

The most significant new development is that the US FDA is considering a recommendation that the vaccine be administered as an intradermal injection. A much smaller dose — one-fifth of the regular dose — is needed for intradermal injections, allowing the limited number of Jynneos doses to go further.”1

Learn more about the virus and its treatment by clicking here.

References

  1. White House Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency. (2022, August 4). Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/978645?src=wnl_newsalrt_220804_MSCPEDIT_monkeypox&uac=367853HG&impID=4498223

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