Lexington well being leaders are working to distribute the monkeypox vaccine

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) — Up to now, there have been no reported instances of monkeypox in Fayette County, however well being officers say we ought to be involved the variety of instances is growing.

There are 9 instances of monkeypox in Kentucky, in keeping with the Kentucky Cupboard for Well being and Household Providers. Seven instances are in Jefferson County, one in McCracken County and one in Warren County. The physician dr. Jeff Foxx of Lexington says monkeypox is much like smallpox however not as lethal.

“It may possibly produce flu-like signs, and usually you’ll be able to see a rash,” stated Dr. Foxx.

He says the rash can appear like chickenpox or shingles.

“So when you’ve got a rash and you’ve got these signs, it is most likely a good suggestion to see what it’s,” stated Dr. Foxx.

In keeping with well being officers, monkeypox is transmitted from individual to individual by shut bodily contact. Males who’ve intercourse with males at the moment have the very best charge of an infection. However officers say that might change as anybody can get the virus. AVOL Kentucky, a clinic that provides HIV and STD testing, helps unfold the phrase.

“Monkeypox is mostly transmitted by intimate skin-to-skin contact. So it is vital to have a dialog together with your companions and know in the event that they at the moment have any signs. If that is the case, you need to keep away from that contact,” stated Jon Parker, Common Supervisor of AVOL Kentucky.

AVOL additionally distributes flyers concerning the monkeypox vaccine. The Lexington-Fayette County Well being Division presents the vaccine, however restricted provide means few persons are eligible to obtain it. This contains males who’ve intercourse with males with sure danger components and individuals who have been in shut contact with an contaminated individual.

The Lexington-Fayette County Well being Division presents monkeypox vaccines Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning at 8:00 a.m. You need to name on the day of to make an appointment.

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