Top 5 Takeaways

1. High Impact on MSM: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly Black MSM, were the most affected by the 2022 U.S. monkeypox outbreak.
2. Targeted Vaccination Efforts: Georgia implemented a targeted vaccination campaign using JYNNEOS vaccine at large LGBTQIA+ events, focusing on equity in vaccine distribution.
3. Effective Collaboration: Collaborative efforts between Georgia Department of Public Health, local health departments, and community organizations facilitated the vaccination of vulnerable communities.
4. Outreach and Access: Innovative strategies, including mobile vans and pop-up events at bars and clubs, were used to enhance vaccine reach and accessibility.
5. Challenges and Adaptations: The campaign faced challenges like vaccine hesitancy and logistical issues related to administering second doses, prompting ongoing efforts to improve equity and access.

Note:

This MMWR Article was created prior to the conventional renaming of Monkeypox to its more standard and appropriate name, Mpox. To avoid confusion, Monkeypox is retained when writing this article, but all future works should use Mpox.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Damian J. Denson, ddenson1@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Millman AJ, Denson DJ, Allen ML, et al. A Health Equity Approach for Implementation of JYNNEOS Vaccination at Large, Community-Based LGBTQIA+ Events — Georgia, August 27–September 5, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:1382–1383. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7143e4.

Summary

During the 2022 U.S. monkeypox outbreak, MSM, especially Black MSM, were significantly affected. Georgia, in response, executed a health equity-based vaccination campaign using JYNNEOS vaccine at large LGBTQIA+ events. This approach included collaborations with local health departments and community organizations.

Methods

The campaign involved administering vaccines at various locations, including health department clinics, bars, clubs, and via mobile vans. Social media and community outreach were crucial for promotion. The focus was on making vaccination convenient and accessible for the target demographic, with special attention to Black MSM.

Discussion

This approach highlighted the value of community engagement in promoting health equity. Despite initial challenges like vaccine hesitancy and logistical issues in administering second doses, the campaign adapted to ensure broader and more equitable vaccine distribution.

Conclusion

The Georgia vaccination campaign against monkeypox demonstrates the effectiveness of a community-based, equitable approach. It underscores the importance of targeted strategies and collaborative efforts in addressing public health challenges among vulnerable populations.

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