08/17/2024
**Urgent Mpox Update: WHO Declares Public Health Emergency**
Dear Community Members,
I wanted to share some critical news: The World Health Organization (WHO) has just declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern. This follows a disturbing surge in cases across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and new outbreaks in neighboring African countries that have never reported mpox before.
Tragically, over 14,000 cases and more than 500 deaths have been reported so far this year, with children in the DRC being the hardest hit. This is a stark reminder of the seriousness of this global health crisis.
**Recent Developments:**
- A deadly strain of mpox, Clade 1, has been detected in Sweden, marking the first case outside of Africa.
- Clade 1 has a 15%-30% higher death rate than Clade 2, which caused the global outbreak in 2022.
**What Does This Mean for Minnesota and the U.S.?**
- The Minnesota Department of Health is working on new vaccination guidelines to protect those most at risk.
- It’s essential to vaccinate as many people as possible before Clade 1 reaches our state. Our current JYNNEOS vaccine stockpile will expire after October 2024, and new purchases may be costly and limited.
- Funding for mpox vaccinations ends in Dec 2024-January 2025. This is our LAST BIG PUSH for vaccinations.
**What You Can Do:**
- Stay vigilant for mpox symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and rash or lesions.
- Get vaccinated. Even if you’re not sexually active or are in a monogamous relationship, vaccination is essential, especially if you have skin or mucous membrane exposure.
- Visit our FAQ on Mpox to learn more.
**Upcoming Event:**
The MPLS Mpox Taskforce is hosting an Mpox and COVID vaccination event this Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Minnesota People of Color Pride from 10am-4pm in Powderhorn Park, South Minneapolis. We also have another event on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 11 am-3 pm at Family Tree, 1919 Nicollet Avenue South, Minneapolis.
M Health Fairview and the MPLSpox Taskforce have additional vaccination events planned monthly in North and South Minneapolis. We’ll also be at upcoming Pride festivals in Duluth, Mankato, and St. Cloud.
For a complete list of our events and clinics offering mpox vaccinations, visit [mplspox.com](http://mplspox.com).
If you or your group wants more information on mpox, we can arrange a training session. Know a group or event that needs vaccinations? Contact us, and we’ll connect you with an outreach provider if there's availability.
Stay connected with us for more updates:
- Facebook: [mplspox](http://facebook.com/mplspox) or [derek.johnsondean](http://facebook.com/derek.johnsondean)
- X/Twitter: [mplspox](http://twitter.com/mplspox) or [djohnsondean](http://twitter.com/djohnsondean)
- Instagram: [mplspoxtaskforce](http://instagram.com/mplspoxtaskforce)
Thank you for your continued support.
**Derek Johnson-Dean**
Executive Director, Restore Yourself
MPLSpox Taskforce
612-424-2231
[email protected]
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Vaccine Location (Clinics or Vaccination Events) [Mobile Device? Please scroll below to find events and clinics] Mpox Vaccinations no longer have a selection criteria. Anyone who wants a JYNNEOS vaccination can get one at our M Health Fairview & Minneapolis Mpox Taskforce. Where to Get Vaccinated: W...
