The US Monkeypox Response Is Failing Queer Men

The US Monkeypox Response Is Failing Queer Men

An expert discusses how the community has evolved to care for themselves in the absence and carelessness of the government.

“A full month before the World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global health emergency, my gay friends in my group texts had already figured out how to get vaccine appointments, what to do if we were exposed, and where to find the best research on risk and vaccine efficacy.”

It was June, and at the time, monkeypox had been spreading in Europe and was primarily affecting men who have sex with men. New York City Pride — and the numerous parties and celebrations that come with it — was about to start, but according to New York City health officials, the number of cases in New York was very low. The caveat: Those were the same city health officials who underestimated Covid-19.

Without advance notice, the city’s health department had made 1,000 doses of Jynneos, the monkeypox vaccine, available the Thursday of Pride. The surprise release — like a sneaker drop — didn’t feel like a reassurance. It felt more like a late attempt to get out in front of a major problem.

A friend sent me a link to an appointment-making website operated by MedRite, and I booked an appointment for 1 pm the next day. I also sent the link to several more friends.

The city ran out of appointments later that day.”

The US named the monkeypox spread, which has spread to every state, a federal public health emergency last week. This action should make it easier to get emergency money and other resources to stop the pandemic. However, access to vaccines is still an issue everywhere. According to a New York Times investigation, the US adopted a wait-and-see strategy in June ignoring intel and vaccine supplies arriving from Europe.

Here are some key points to take away.

The community is being deprived of access to the treatment they require. They are being left to fight for themselves and be their own advocates. The community is left depending on each other to stay informed about the virus since the government is lacking in this aspect.

Importantly, it is crucial to use language that is clear and accurate when referring to epidemics that spread through LGBTQ sexual networks. Having sexual relations is natural. The only issue is that treatment and vaccines for the virus are being largely out of reach. Officials and the institutions responsible for health need to do better!

Reflection: How do you feel the government and health officials are handling the monkeypox virus?

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