On August 4, 2022, the monkeypox outbreak was declared a public health emergency in the United States. Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox does not spread easily between people; however, anyone in close contact with a person with monkeypox can get it and should take steps to protect themselves. According to the CDC, monkeypox can spread from person-to-person through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids. It also can be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex. In addition, pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta. Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids is another way monkeypox spreads. CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to monkeypox. However, vaccination may be recommended for some people who: • Are close personal contacts of people who have been diagnosed with monkeypox • Have had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known monkeypox • May have increased risk of being exposed to the virus, such as people who perform laboratory testing to diagnose monkeypox There is currently a limited supply of the monkeypox vaccine and not yet available at Winona Health. Talk to your health care provider if you think you have been exposed to monkeypox or are at high risk for exposure. More information can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/monkeypox.