Reversing Inequity in Mpox Vaccine Distribution, Fulton County, Georgia, June-September 2022

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Equity

Background:

• Racial and ethnic disparities in mpox vaccine administration were observed in Fulton County, Georgia.
• These inequities posed a significant threat to the overall effectiveness of the public health response to the mpox outbreak.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address and reverse racial/ethnic disparities in mpox vaccine administration.
• To improve vaccine equity among key populations, specifically Black and Latino men who have sex with men.

Main Methods:

• The Fulton County Board of Health collaborated with community organizations serving Black and Latino men who have sex with men.
• Dedicated vaccination appointment blocks were reserved for clients of these partner agencies.

Main Results:

• The intervention successfully reversed the initial disparities in mpox vaccine administration.
• Following the targeted outreach, case rates approached equity across racial and ethnic groups.

Conclusions:

• Community- P.A.R.T.N.E.R.S.H.I.P.S. and targeted strategies are effective in mitigating vaccine access inequities.
• Equitable vaccine distribution is crucial for controlling infectious disease outbreaks and achieving public health goals.