MPV is spread by skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated clothes or linen. 306 cases have been reported in the U.S. since May. While the CDC noted early data suggest gay and bisexual men make up a higher number of cases, independent public health researchers warn that limited testing capacity so far has made it difficult to accurately measure cases and spread. The national strategy announcement notes that the CDC has scaled up testing capacity to 78 sites in 48 states, primarily at state public health labs.
HHS’ vaccination plan includes distributing 296,000 vaccines in the coming weeks, with a total of 1.6 million doses by the end of the year. Vaccines will be provided to people with confirmed and presumed MPV exposures, including those who had close physical contact with someone or whose partner has been diagnosed, and men who have sex with men who were in a venue where MPV was known to be spreading.
Statement from GLAAD President and CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis:
“HHS’ vaccination strategy is critically necessary to protect vulnerable people and the public at large. Media must do their part to elevate information that all communities need to hear to be safe: anyone can get the virus if they come into contact with it. Media must continue to hold public health officials accountable to accurate data gathering, testing, treatment and vaccine distribution to stop the spread of this virus.”
