Monkeypox cases first began to appear in the United States in May 2022. Since then, cases have continued to rise. According to the CDC, monkeypox is a viral disease that is spread through skin-to-skin contact. Symptoms include a rash that includes pimples or blisters, fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and exhaustion.
With the increase in cases, states and localities have begun to declare states of emergency to expand resources and enhance coordination efforts with state agencies as they respond to the monkeypox outbreak. Additionally, on August 4, 2022, the Biden administration declared monkeypox a public health emergency.
Unlike Covid-19, a vaccine for monkeypox has previously been developed and is already available. The Biden Administration has distributed monkeypox vaccines to the states who are prioritizing vaccinating vulnerable individuals. While monkeypox can be contracted by anyone, this current outbreak has been reported to have had a significant impact on men in the LGBT community.
States of Emergency
States Policy Response
In late July and early August, California, New York, and Illinois declared states of emergency. We expect additional states to follow.
Local Policy Response
Additionally, the following local-level jurisdictions have issued states of emergency: