Monkeypox Testing, Vaccine, and Healthcare Worker Monitoring Update

Providers should consider testing any patient who presents with a rash or lesions consistent with monkeypox. Several commercial laboratories offer monkeypox testing, and healthcare providers should primarily use these laboratories for monkeypox testing. To ensure timely access to testing, providers do not have to call the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH) or their local health department prior to sending specimens to commercial labs. Testing will also continue to be available through the PA DOH Bureau of Laboratories (BOL) with approval from the PADOH or a local health department. On Aug. 9, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) that allows for an intradermal or subcutaneous vaccination with JYNNEOS for people 18 years old and older and allows for subcutaneous vaccination with JYNNEOS for patients under 18 years old. CDC has provided a video demonstrating intradermal injections. JYNNEOS is available in Pennsylvania to those who have been exposed to monkeypox and those who may be more likely to get monkeypox. CDC has issued guidance on assessing the risk of healthcare workers after they have cared for an identified monkeypox case and recommendations for post-exposure prophylaxis. If you have any questions, please call PA DOH at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) or your local health department. Click here for the full update.