(Chicago, IL, May 5, 2023) — Howard Brown Health has identified a resurgence in cases of Monkeypox (Mpox) in the Chicago area. As of this morning, the agency has diagnosed seven new cases of mpox since April 17, with results from tests performed this week still pending.
In the nearly three months before April 17, the Chicago Department of Public Health only reported one new mpox case, diagnosed at Howard Brown. Last week's new case rate was the highest in Chicago since early November 2022 and was the highest weekly new case rate in any US region so far this year.
"We urge sexually active members of our community to receive the mpox vaccine. For example, unvaccinated people planning to attend International Mr. Leather at the end of May should receive their first dose of the mpox vaccination as soon as possible," said Dr. Patrick Gibbons, Chief Medical Director. "The more people who get vaccinated, the better protected the LGBTQ+ community will be from another outbreak of Monkeypox this year."
Anyone at risk for Monkeypox who has not been previously vaccinated should call to schedule a vaccination appointment as soon as possible at any one of Howard Brown's nine medical clinics. Patients can also seek care at Howard Brown's walk-in clinics at its 55th St (Hyde Park), 63rd St (Englewood), and Sheridan (Uptown) locations.
If you are experiencing any symptoms indicative of mpox (such as new bumps, blisters, or rash in the face, trunk, hands, or back), please contact us at 773.388.1600 to arrange prompt testing. For more information on mpox prevention, symptoms, vaccination, and treatment, please visit our mpox information page at howardbrown.org/mpox.
Rooted in LGBTQ+ liberation, Howard Brown Health provides affirming healthcare and mobilizes for social justice as an agent of change for individual wellbeing and community empowerment. Howard Brown envisions a future where healthcare and transformative social policies actualize human rights and equity for all. Howard Brown offers primary care, behavioral health, and social services at 11 clinics across the city, regardless of ability to pay.
