Free Monkeypox Vaccine Now Available in Charlotte, NC

If you are at high risk of getting the latest virus monkeypox, Mecklenburg County Public Health is now offering free vaccines. Health officials say the vaccine can work. It can actually prevent a person from getting sick or reduce the severity of their symptoms. That person would have to receive the vaccine within two weeks of being exposed. The health department is offering the vaccine to people who self-identify as high risk. HIGH-RISK CRITERIA The Centers for Disease Control considers the following criteria high risk: Close physical contact with someone diagnosed with monkeypox in the past 14 days Men who have sex with men or transgender individuals who have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the last 14 days in a venue where monkeypox was present or in an area where the virus is spreading Areas where monkeypox is spreading currently include: several locations in Europe and parts of the US (California, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas MONKEYPOX VACCINE LOCATIONS NW Location - 2845 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216 SE Location - 249 Billingsly Road, Charlotte, NC 28211 Monkeypox vaccines are free. If you think you are at high-risk, schedule an appointment online or call Mecklenburg County Public Health 704-336-6500.