The LGBT community of New York helpless before the advance of monkeypox

First modification: 07/22/2022 – 13:20

By RFI’s correspondent in New York, Loubna Anaki.

Long lines stretch for several blocks in front of New York clinics, where it’s nearly impossible to get an appointment for a monkeypox vaccine.

“It is spreading like wildfire. Last weekend, my friend waited a very long time in front of the clinic. Hundreds of people had to wait because there was a problem in the computer system. The real problem is that they don’t have enough vaccines,” an inhabitant explains to RFI. Like him, many denounce the inaction of the authorities in the face of the epidemic.

Another man in line explains that sick people can’t get pain medication. “And I know people who have tried four times to get a vaccination appointment to no avail,” he adds.

26,000 doses of vaccines

Since its arrival in the United States, monkeypox has infected 700 people in New York. The figures increase and although anyone can become contaminated, the LGBT community is the most affected.

The association Act Up organized this Thursday, July 21, a protest in Manhattan to demand better care. Many fear they will be stigmatized. According to the association, “people are afraid that the same thing will happen as with HIV in the 80s and 90s and that homosexuals will be perceived as carriers of the disease.”

The authorities promised to increase the doses of vaccines in the coming days. This week a supply of 26,000 supplementary doses is expected.