August 7: U.S. declares mpox a public health emergency
Health and rhetoric experts convene to address stigma and discuss how to protect the LGBTQ+ community. WHO notes that in endemic nations, outbreaks affect the full population, not just members of the LGBTQ+ community. The White House appoints an mpox coordinator to manage health initiatives. Europe reports first two fatal cases of mpox.
August 9: Two gay men in Washington, DC physically assaulted and targeted with anti-gay slurs & references to mpox
Monkeys are poisoned and stoned by civilians in Brazil. The FDA approves a method of administering small-dose vaccines to make limited vaccines more widely available under an Emergency Use Authorization.
August 21: U.S. targets vaccines & prevention measures towards LGBTQ-dominant areas
WHO solicits suggestions for a new term for “monkeypox” from civilians. Mpox cases decline globally by 21%.
August 28: U.S. increases accessibility of vaccines to marginalized communities
The first U.S. mpox death is recorded in Texas. Mpox symptoms become atypical or absent, according to doctors. WHO shares confidence that mpox can be eradicated throughout Europe.