Monkeypox is a disease caused by a virus that can result in a rash or lesions, and is spread through close person to person contact. Anyone can get and spread monkeypox. Close contact includes touching skin lesions, bodily fluids, or clothing/linens that have been in contact with an infected person. Spread can also occur during prolonged face-to-face contact, as well as sexual or intimate contact. At present, the highest risk activity is having sex with multiple or anonymous partners.
Individuals who live or spend time in the Chickahominy Health District can complete an interest form for the monkeypox vaccine, JYNNEOS. In order to gauge community interest and determine who might be at a higher risk of monkeypox exposure, we have created an optional survey interest form for community members. Interested individuals can fill out this form.
A limited supply of vaccines are being offered in Virginia to adults with certain risk factors that increase their likelihood of becoming exposed to monkeypox. Because vaccination supply remains limited, vaccination is not guaranteed by filling out the interest form.
For more information regarding risks, symptoms, and exposure, as well as links to various sites and other resources, please visit the VDH Monkeypox Overview Webpage.