PASS Issues Monkeypox Guidelines, Announces New Clinic

In their announcement, PASS added that “following a joint advocacy effort, PASS will be partnering with the LA LGBT Center to offer a sex worker specific vaccine clinic on Friday, August 5th in West Hollywood,” as well.

“While we are not aware of Monkeypox incidents related to adult production, we are a community that has historically taken our health, and public health, very seriously,” said Ian O’Brien, Executive Director of PASS. “We have been working directly with stakeholders since we first became aware of the potential threat. The new guidance and clinic will help us prevent the spread, and we ask our entire community to join the fight.”

PASS also noted in their announcement that while “much of the reporting on Monkeypox has suggested sexual transmission between men who have sex with men, Monkeypox is most often transmitted by direct skin contact, and through non-sexual activities such as kissing.”

“This is a painful infection that is easily transmissible for those in physical contact with others,” O’Brien said. “The best thing you can do is get vaccinated, though we know vaccines are not accessible to everyone yet. In the meantime, to protect yourself and your community, be aware of any potential signs of infection in yourself or others, including unexplained muscle aches, chills, exhaustion, and swollen lymph nodes that can precede a rash or lesion.”

Under the guidelines, PASS makes the following recommendations:

– If you develop any sort of suspicious rash, lesions, or bumps, or “feel sick,” do not work. Visit your medical provider immediately.

– Reduce physical contact between people as much as possible.

– Clean and disinfect surfaces, bedding, and clothing. Utilize gloves and other personal protective equipment when cleaning.

– Get vaccinated. If you are not in Los Angeles, check with your local public health agency to see if vaccination is available in your area.

For more information, read the PASS Monkeypox Production Guidelines here and the organization’s full announcement here.