People across Washington can now call 1-833-829-HELP for the latest information on the monkeypox virus (MPV).
The call center is an expansion of the Washington Department of Health’s (DOH) efforts to provide information to Washingtonians. Two weeks ago, DOH activated its Incident Management Team (IMT) to dedicate time and efforts to help address the growing cases of MPV.
Through an ongoing partnership with Washington 211, call takers will answer questions about MPV risk factors, vaccine information, testing and treatment from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays, and from 6 a.m.to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays and observed state holidays. In addition to calling 1-833-829-HELP, callers can continue to dial 1-800-525-0127 and press # to be transferred to a Washington 211 specialist. Language assistance is available in 240 languages. Call takers will not be able to schedule vaccine appointments.
“As we navigate the MPV outbreak in Washington state, we cannot underestimate the need for our community members to address their questions and concerns,” said DOH Secretary of Health Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH. “We are pleased to partner with 211 to meet this crucial need.”
The best thing Washingtonians can do to protect themselves against MPV is to know the risks and take precautions. Despite misinformation, DOH wants to be clear that anyone who has close contact with a person with an infectious rash can get MPV; it is not exclusive to any community.
MPV can also spread through touching objects, fabrics and surfaces that have been used by someone with MPV, and contact with respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.Those with an unexplained rash should cover it, avoid skin-to-skin contact with others, and see a health care provider. They will determine what testing and treatment may be available. Those who have been exposed to someone with MPV should contact a health provider or a local health jurisdiction to discuss whether they are eligible for vaccination. More information is available on the Washington State Department of Health MPV information page.
This press release was provided by the Washington State Department of Health.