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Mobile Mpox Vaccination in New York City Provided Flexible Community-Responsive Vaccine Access During the 2022 Global Mpox Emergency
24 Pages Posted: 12 Jun 2024
More...Abstract
Background: In May 2022, mpox (formerly monkeypox) began spreading globally through LGBTQ+ sexual networks. Regional transmission of mpox in west and central Africa has occurred since 2017 with little global intervention. By August 2022, New York City (NYC) became the global epicenter of the mpox outbreak, with the highest number of cases reported in the U.S.
Methods: We describe an on-site mpox vaccination strategy at commercial sex venues, nightlife venues, and pride and health centers, during August 1–November 15, 2022. Data were collected on doses, demographics, and event size to determine and evaluate vaccine uptake.
Findings: The on-site vaccination strategy resulted in 3,358 JYNNEOS doses administered at 363 events at 58 locations, including 22 events at two commercial sex venues. We show high uptake of the JYNNEOS vaccine at commercial sex venues, with as many as 60% of attendees of one event receiving a JYNNEOS vaccine dose on site. This was possible after New York City health agencies responded to community demand for second doses. Messaging about the importance and availability of vaccination at these parties was community-led. JYNNEOS vaccination via mobile clinics demonstrated less racial and geographic disparity compared to non-mobile vaccinations.
Interpretation: These results demonstrate the success of a community-led rapid response to an emergent mpox outbreak, including at places where people meet for sex.
Funding: The NYC Health + Hospitals mpox response, including the mobile JYNNEOS vaccination units, was funded via a combination of New York City resources and other governmental grants, including from New York City and State.
Declaration of Interest: The authors declare no competing interests
Ethical Approval: Because the study used only de-identified data, this study was exempt from IRB review at New York University.
Keywords: mpox, LGBTQ+, JYNNEOS, NYC, New York City
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation