Community-Driven Mobile Mpox Vaccination in NYC During 2022 Outbreak

Overview

During the 2022 global mpox outbreak, New York City implemented a community-led mobile vaccination strategy targeting LGBTQ+ venues, including commercial sex venues and nightlife locations. This approach resulted in 3,358 JYNNEOS doses administered across 363 events, demonstrating high vaccine uptake and reduced racial and geographic disparities compared to nonmobile vaccination efforts.

Background

Mpox spread rapidly through LGBTQ+ sexual networks in 2022, with New York City becoming the US epicenter by August. The JYNNEOS vaccine, requiring two doses for full efficacy, was initially in limited supply. Given the outbreak's association with venues where LGBTQ+ individuals meet, targeted vaccination at these sites was critical. NYC leveraged its history of public health interventions in LGBTQ+ communities to establish trusted partnerships for on-site vaccination delivery.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Mobile vaccination clinics administered 3,358 JYNNEOS doses at 363 events across 58 NYC locations.
• High vaccine uptake observed at commercial sex venues, with up to 60% of attendees vaccinated at a single event.
• Community-led messaging and collaboration with venue owners facilitated rapid vaccine delivery and acceptance.
• Mobile vaccination reduced racial and geographic disparities compared to traditional vaccination sites.
• No increase in mpox cases was observed as commercial sex venues reopened with on-site vaccination available.
• Two doses of JYNNEOS vaccine are necessary for optimal protection, with efficacy estimates ranging from 66% to 88%.

Clinical Implications

Targeted mobile vaccination at venues frequented by high-risk populations can enhance vaccine uptake and equity during outbreaks. Engaging community leaders and venue operators is essential for effective outreach and trust-building. This model may be applied to future public health emergencies requiring rapid, focused vaccination efforts in marginalized communities.

Conclusion

The NYC community-driven mobile vaccination strategy effectively increased mpox vaccine coverage in key populations, mitigating disparities and supporting safe reopening of high-risk venues. This approach exemplifies the value of tailored, community-engaged public health responses during infectious disease outbreaks.

References

1. NYC Department of Health 2022 -- Mpox Vaccination Efforts and Case Data
2. CDC 2022 -- JYNNEOS Vaccine Efficacy Estimates
3. Community-Led Public Health Initiatives 2022 -- Mobile Vaccination Strategies