Short Wave How Monkeypox Became A Public Health Emergency
Aug 9, 2022
Pien Huang, a health reporter from NPR, dives into the urgent rise of monkeypox in the U.S. With over 7,500 confirmed cases since May, Huang discusses the outbreak's roots, tracing its historical context in Africa and its shift to epidemic status. She highlights the unique challenges in testing and vaccination, especially among marginalized communities. The conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding transmission and emphasizes the need for global cooperation to prevent monkeypox from becoming endemic.
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Monkeypox's Changing Nature
- Monkeypox, previously endemic to Africa, is now spreading globally, changing our understanding of the disease.
- The current outbreak differs from previous patterns, affecting urban, sexually active men.
Early Warnings
- Dr. Dimie Ogoina diagnosed the first case of this strain five years ago and noticed a new pattern.
- It spread among young men in cities, many having sex with multiple partners or sex workers.
Monkeypox Transmission
- Monkeypox behaves like an STD, spreading primarily through sexual contact.
- While not officially classified as an STD, it's considered "STD plus" due to potential spread via prolonged contact or surfaces.