Monkeypox

Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. In 2022 the World Health Organization adopted mpox as the preferred name to reduce stigma and confusion. That year an international outbreak spread through close physical contact, including sexual contact, and disproportionately affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Symptoms include a painful rash, lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The JYNNEOS vaccine is effective for prevention. Drawing on hard-won experience from the HIV and AIDS crisis, LGBTQ+ communities mobilized quickly around vaccination, harm reduction, and clear communication, while pushing back on stigmatizing language.