CARREÓN HEALTH

MonkeyPox Information

Monkeypox Testing and Vaccine Information

Monkeypox Vaccines


  • Eligibility: For up to date guidelines from the CDC on when you are eligible to get the monkeypox vaccine, click here.


  • Vaccine available: Eligible patients can get the JYNNEOS vaccine. This vaccine has been approved by the FDA for the prevention of monkeypox in people ages 18 and older.


  • Vaccine administration: The JYNNEOS vaccine is currently FDA approved to be administered subcutanously. This vaccine was also given the FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) to be administered intradermally for individuals 18 years of age and older. For more information about this EUA, please click here.


  • Limited Supply: We are receiving monkeypox doses in limited supply, and these will be administered by appointment at the clinic. Please be aware that supplies are limited, but we are working with the state and county to distribute this vaccine to those at highest risk.


  • Appointments: Appointments are required. You can make an appointment by clicking "Book and Appointment." We ask that you stay at least 15 minutes after the vaccine is given for observation of possible adverse effects. Due to limited space, we do ask that you come in as close as you can to your appointment time.


  • Cost: There is no cost for you to receive the vaccine. Any administration fees will be billed to your insurance, and there will be no copay or bill from our office for the vaccine administration. 


  • Cancellations: If you need to cancel your appointment for any reason, please let us know as soon as you know! You can email us at info@carreonhealth.org or respond to your appointment reminder. This will allow the slot to be open for someone else that needs it.


  • Appointment Adjustments: Due to the nature of the vaccine’s handling instructions, we may need to make adjustments to your appointment time/date to reduce the risk of having to discard unused doses.



Monkeypox Testing and Treatment


  • Testing: We are currently able to collect specimens and send these to Quest Diagnostics for testing. Currently we are receiving the results in 2-3 days. Please be advised that these specimens are collected from suspected sores. There is currently no blood test available to check for a monkeypox infection.


  • Treatment: In most cases, Monkeypox will resolve on its own. There are also antiviral medications such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), that may be recommended for people with severe symptoms, or people who are more likely to get severely ill, like patients with weakened immune systems. We currently have this medication in stock.


What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox (MPV) is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox is not related to chickenpox.

Is Monkeypox Dangerous?

Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms, but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. In the recent outbreak, the rash or sores is often seen in the genital/groin area as well as in and around the anal area but can occur all over the body as well as on the palms of the hands and soles of feet. These sores can be very painful. Some recent patients have also reported anal symptoms like bleeding, pain, and mucous.

Who is at highest risk?

Although Monkeypox (MPV) can affect anyone regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation, recent clusters have disproportionately occurred in men who have sex with men.

How is it transmitted?

Monkeypox (MPV) is spread through: 

  • Direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with rash, scabs, or body fluids 
  • Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face (unmasked) contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex 
  • Touching porous items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids 



In the current outbreak, MPV is mainly spreading through oral, anal and vaginal sex and other intimate contact such as rimming, hugging, kissing, biting, cuddling and massage.

How do I protect myself?

  • Talking to your sexual partner(s) about any recent illness, and being aware of new or unexplained sores or rashes on you or your partner’s body, including on the genitals and anus 
  • Avoiding intimate physical contact, including kissing, cuddling, and sex with someone with an unexplained rash or sore 
  • Seeking medical advice if you’ve had contact with someone who has tested positive or, if you have developed a new or unexplained rash or sore 
  • Regularly washing hands 


How can I protect others?

If you are diagnosed with Monkeypox (MPV) or have a new and unexplained rash or sore, you can reduce the risk to others by:

  • Keeping your rash covered when coming into contact with others 
  • Avoiding intimate contact 
  • If you are having intimate contact, cover your rashes and sores during contact and avoid kissing 
  • Being open and honest with your partners 

Help reduce stigma!

  • Anyone can get Monkeypox (MPV), regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation. 
  • Have open conversations with sexual partners about your status, and theirs. Lead with empathy! We are all going through a scary time, but we are in this together. Do not blame or shame anyone – including yourself. 
  • Don’t panic, and contact us if you have a new or unexplained rash. You can get tested, and find ways to keep you, your partners, and other close contacts safe. 


Reald

During your appointment for your initial vaccine, you may be asked to complete the following form for state reporting purposes. To speed up the process, you can print the form and have it ready by your appointment:

Download Form