Gala and SLO County Public Health host second MPX vaccine clinic. Here’s when and where
San Luis Obispo County Public Health and the Gala Pride and Diversity Center in SLO are hosting a second MPX vaccine clinic in October for eligible community members.
Those who received their first MPX vaccine in September at the Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo vaccine events and new patients who meet criteria are eligible.
Patients can receive an MPX vaccine at Gala on Oct. 14 with no appointment necessary.
“We’re excited to partner with Public Health and the SLO County MPX Advisory Group to provide vaccine in a supportive, uplifting atmosphere,” Gala Executive Director Dusty Colyer-Worth said in a news release. “This event is a great opportunity not only to get vaccinated but also to talk with affirming medical professionals about MPX and how you can stay safe through this outbreak.”
The Gala vaccine event will feature a food truck and live music, plus preventive care and medical professionals to answer questions, according to a Facebook post. Spanish-language interpreters will be available to help patients who are non-native English speakers or for whom English is a second language.
What is the MPX vaccine? How is it administered?
The authorized MPX vaccine is JYNNEOS and is administered intradermally, meaning between layers of skin, typically underneath the forearm, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The administration of the MPX vaccine is similar to a tuberculosis test, the Public Health release said.
After a nationwide shortage of MPX vaccine that impacted availability in San Luis Obispo County, supply has improved, the release said.
“We are in a much better place with MPX vaccine than we were even a month ago,” County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein said in a news release.
Who is eligible for the MPX vaccine in SLO County?
The MPX vaccine is being administered to SLO County residents over 18 years old who meet the following criteria:
- Identify as gay, bisexual, and other men or trans people who have sex with men, or
- Identify as sex workers of any sexual orientation or gender identity, including those who engage in transactional or survival sex, or
- Have had close contact with someone diagnosed with MPX, or
- Are sexual partners of people with the above risks, or
- Anticipate experiencing the above risks, OR
- Are health care workers who are likely to examine or collect laboratory specimens from people with MPX.
The eligibility criteria expanded since September to include more community members. Eventually, Public Health hopes to be able to administer the MPX vaccine to anyone who wants one, according to the Public Health MPX website.
“I am grateful to Gala and our community partners for their collaboration and to everyone who is taking steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from MPX,” Borenstein said in the release.
When and where to get an MPX vaccine in October
MPX vaccines are available without an appointment at the Gala Pride and Diversity Center at 1060 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo on Oct. 13 from 4-6:30 p.m.
MPX vaccines also are available by appointment at the Paso Robles Public Health Clinic at 805 4th St. on Oct. 13. Call 805-237-3050 to make an appointment.
