Monkeypox In Union County: Case Numbers, Who Can Get Vaccinated

UNION COUNTY, NJ — With the recent spread of monkeypox across the globe, cases are starting to increase in New Jersey and in Union County.

According to the NJ Department of Health, there are 175 probable and confirmed cases in the state, with 14 cases in Union County.

Monkeypox virus can cause flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes and a rash that often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, according the Health Department. Monkeypox does not spread easily to people without close contact.

At this time, the Health Department said cases of monkeypox are relatively rare in the United States. People who think they may have been exposed to monkeypox or who have symptoms of monkeypox should consult with a healthcare provider.

The CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who may be more likely to get monkeypox. However, there is a limited supply of the vaccine, called JYNNEOS, in New Jersey.

The following residents may be eligible for vaccination, according to the NJDOH:

• People who have known contact with someone who tested positive for orthopoxvirus or monkeypox virus within past 14 days (contact your local health department to coordinate vaccination)
• People who attended an event where known monkeypox exposure occurred within 14 days (make an appointment at a vaccine location)
• People who identify as gay, bisexual, or men who have sex with men (MSM), and/or transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary and who have a history of multiple or anonymous sex with partners within past 14 days (make an appointment at a vaccine location)

Related: NJ Councilman Worries About Monkeypox Impact On Gay Community

New Jersey is expecting additional doses from CDC, and as the state get additional supply, the NJDOH will continue to expand access to the vaccine.

Currently, there are no vaccine sites set up in Union County, but there are others across the state. You can find a list of vaccination sites on the NJDOH website.

The monkeypox vaccine can also help protect against smallpox and other diseases caused by orthopoxviruses. Learn more about it here.

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