Secretary Becerra says to take the virus seriously.
On Thursday, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said he was declaring a public health emergency over the outbreak of monkeypox in the U.S.
The health secretary stated, “In light of evolving circumstances on the ground, I am declaring a public health emergency on #monkeypox. We are prepared to take our response to the next level in addressing this virus. We urge every American to take monkeypox seriously.”
The monkeypox outbreak has reportedly infected more than 6,600 Americans. The emergency declaration makes federal money and other resources available to address the virus, which may cause fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and pimple-like bumps on many parts of the body. A public health emergency can be extended, similar to what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The White House said it has made more than 1.1 million vaccine doses available and helped boost domestic diagnostic capacity to 80,000 tests per week.
Monkeypox was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization last week, as cases have shown up in more than 70 countries.
Monkeypox can infect anyone, but the majority of cases in the U.S. outbreak have been among men who have sex with men, including gay and bisexual men and people who identify as transgender. Health professionals say that close contact with an infected individual is required for the spread of the monkeypox virus.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For discernment for Secretary Becerra as he addresses the monkeypox outbreak.
- For Director Walensky as she oversees the CDC’s recommendations.
- For wisdom for the president and his administration as they take steps to protect the American public.
Sources: CNN, Fox News, Reuters
