WA Launches New Monkeypox Hotline

OLYMPIA, WA — Washington launched a new hotline this week for residents to call if they have any questions about monkeypox, including information about risk and where to get vaccinated, tested, or treated. Washington 211 call takers will staff the new 1-833-829-HELP hotline daily, and assistance is available in dozens of languages.

“As we navigate the MPV outbreak in Washington state, we cannot underestimate the need for our community members to address their questions and concerns,” said Dr. Umair Shah, state Secretary of Health. “We are pleased to partner with 211 to meet this crucial need.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington has 234 confirmed monkeypox cases linked to the outbreak, among 10,768 identified across the United States. State health officials said earlier this month that case counts were doubling nearly every week in Washington. The vast majority of local cases have been identified in King County.

While some groups are at a disproportionate risk, the state Department of Health said anyone can be susceptible to infection.

"Despite misinformation, we want to be clear that anyone who has close contact with a person with an infectious rash can get MPV; it is not exclusive to any community," DOH officials wrote Thursday. "MPV can also spread through touching objects, fabrics and surfaces that have been used by someone with MPV, and contact with respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact. If you have an unexplained rash, cover it, avoid skin-to-skin contact with others, and see a health care provider. "

Residents can find the latest information about monkeypox, including cases by county, on the Department of Health's website.

Washington launches monkeypox call center:

• Phone number: 1-833-829-HELP
• Hours:
  • Monday: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  • Tuesday - Sunday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.