The Black AIDS Institute (BAI), which calls for educating and mobilizing communities across the US to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic, is now calling for the testing and treatment of monkeypox in LGBTQ+ and underserved communities of color.

Nearly 3,500 cases of monkeypox have been reported in the US by the Centers for Disease Control. Cases are expected to surge in the coming months. Monkeypox, a rare virus that has similar symptoms as smallpox, is transmitted through direct, intimate contact with infectious sores, body fluids – including breathing and during sexual intercourse. Most symptoms are mild and result in a rash or fever. However, monkeypox can cause death if not treated immediately.

"With the rising outbreak of monkeypox in the United States, it is imperative that convenient access to testing and treatment is available to vulnerable populations, especially the HIV/AIDS immunocompromised and Black and Latino communities. We cannot allow communities of color to be left behind. Health care officials must make our health a priority, and we must as well," stated Grazell Howard, Chair of the Board of BAI. "Preventive care and testing are vital to closing the health care disparity gaps that impact Black and Brown communities, and in LGBTQ+ communities."

As cities are struggling with their response to the monkeypox virus, BAI is urging health officials to make testing equity a priority. The Black AIDS Institute is engaging in an education campaign to provide communities with more information on the monkeypox virus and the need for testing and generally knowing your health status.

BAI will be providing testing for Monkeypox in their network centers across the US. For more information on access to testing, visit https://blackaids.org/

Related myGwork articles:

WHO Advises LGBTQ+ Men To Limit Number Of Partners To Reduce Risk Of Monkeypox

UK Health Officials Issue New guidance as Monkeypox Cases Continue to Surge

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