In preparation for Southern Decadence Festival in New Orleans, the National Monkeypox Response team has sent teams along with 6,000 vaccine doses to help mitigate and raise awareness of the virus. Governor John Bel Edwards praised the team for their efforts to reach those most at-risk.
“And with respect to testing you all are going to pilot a mobile testing facility here around the Southern Decadence Festival too, so we really appreciate that,” said Edwards.
The annual Labor Day weekend event, which hasn’t been held since 2019 due to the pandemic, can attract up to 300,000 people from all over the country. Edwards said it’s an ideal opportunity to reach a vulnerable demographic.
“So being able to prepare for that and to get ahead start on the vaccinations, on the testing, on the communications all extremely important,” said Edwards.
The vaccine can help prevent and also treat Monkeypox symptoms from worsening. Ideally, the vaccination is given in two doses four weeks apart. Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Dr. Demetre Daskalakis said Decadence allows them to reach those who are less likely to go to a clinic.
“But will feel comfortable and frankly less stigmatizing spaces that can occur in the event,” said Daskalakis.
In addition to Decadence this weekend the federal response team will also be doing similar outreach at Atlanta Black Proud.
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