Monkeypox vaccines coming to Paducah as precaution

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI)- So far, eight cases of Monkeypox have been found in Kentucky, one of which was confirmed in McCracken County.

In response, the Paducah-McCracken County Health Department ordered a number of vaccines to address the potential spread of the highly contagious virus.

“We had a distribution that went out and no say in how much we were going to get, 20 doses in initially,” said Public Health Director Kent Coster.

This comes a week after the Biden administration declared Monkeypox to be a public health emergency. Out of the eight countries that have confirmed Monkeypox infections, America tops the list.

Monkeypox is known to cause flu-like symptoms and a bumpy rash on the skin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can spread from coming into direct contact with an infected person’s scabs and bodily fluid, clothes and bedding, and through sexual intercourse.

“Anybody you know, could get Monkeypox, you know in the right situation,” said Coster stated.

Monkeypox usually lasts two to four weeks, from the beginning of the rash to the formation of new skin.

According to the Paducah-McCracken County Health Department, the vaccines that are on the way will only be used on those who have been in contact with someone confirmed to have the Monkeypox virus.