Urgent Call to Action: Rising Mpox Cases in Nashville and Davidson County Prompt Vaccination Clinics

Recent reports from health officials in Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee, reveal a concerning increase in cases of monkeypox (Mpox), a rare but potentially severe disease. This sudden uptick, which began around the Thanksgiving period, has prompted the local health department to host a vaccination event at the Lentz Public Health Center, aiming to protect the community from the further spread of this contagion.

Understanding the Rising Mpox Cases

Mpox is a rare disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. The Metro Public Health Department has seen an increase in Mpox cases recently, with a notable surge in September when over 100 residents in the Davidson County area were confirmed to have contracted the virus. In the past month and a half alone, five more cases have been recorded in Davidson County, contributing to a total of over 400 cases in Tennessee and more than 31,000 across the United States this year.

Particular populations, including men in frequent close contact with other men, individuals with weakened immune systems, elderly residents, and pregnant individuals, are at a heightened risk of severe outcomes if they contract Mpox. The disease predominantly spreads through close skin-to-skin, often sexual, contact with an infected person.

Proactive Measures Against Mpox

In light of the surge in Mpox cases, the Nashville Health Department is hosting a vaccination clinic at the Lentz Public Health Center. The clinic will be open from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 7, offering Mpox vaccines to eligible patients. By providing the vaccine, the health department aims to control the spread of the disease and protect the most vulnerable in the community.

Health officials are also encouraging the public not to overlook the importance of receiving the flu vaccine during National Influenza Vaccination Week. In addition to the Mpox vaccine clinic, the Nashville Davidson County health department has established a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Music City Center, open for both walk-ins and appointments. With multiple vaccines readily available, the health department is striving to curb the spread of various viruses and safeguard the health of the community.

Global Health Alert: Severe Mpox Strain

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health alert about a more severe Mpox strain observed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While no cases of this severe strain have been reported in the U.S. yet, the CDC is encouraging eligible patients to receive the Jynneos vaccine as a preventive measure against potential infections.

As the health landscape continues to evolve with the emergence of new disease strains, local and national health officials remain committed to keeping the public informed and protected. The rise in Mpox cases underscores the importance of vaccination and proactive health measures, and the community is urged to respond accordingly to protect against the spread of Mpox.