As the state tries to keep the omicron subvariant B.A.5 contained, monkeypox cases are on the rise. There are just over 1,800 cases in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by the monkeypox virus and can cause rashes, which may resemble pimples or blisters and are sometimes accompanied by flu-like symptoms.
As of Monday, New Jersey has just over 30 reported cases. Health officials warn if the virus continues to spread the state could be dealing with two pandemics. Across the river, 489 cases of monkeypox have been reported in New York City, where mass vaccination sites have been opened to help contain the outbreak.
In addition to getting tested, health advocates say better public messaging is needed, especially in the gay community, where most cases have been detected. The virus is typically spread by skin-to-skin contact. For more on New Jersey’s response to monkeypox read here.
