yesterday I got my monkeypox vaccine. the only reason I was able to do so was because of my queer friends. I have some thoughts about it.🧵(1/10)
if there’s one prevailing memory of this monkeypox outbreak, let it be the actions of our community who have spread awareness through social media and helped one another access vital healthcare. (2/10)
it is accurate, not discriminatory, to note that monkeypox is primarily being spread through networks of men who have sex with men (msm). I understand the fears that highlighting this harkens back to the AIDS crisis, and the trauma this evokes. (3/10)
in the early days of the HIV/AIDS epicemic, public messaging was both targeted and incredibly stigmatised against msm - a wound which is still sore today, and understandably so. (4/10)
stigma must not stand in the way of action and we must reach those most at risk of contracting the disease (who are msm) - therefore targeted, non-stigmatised messaging is crucial. (5/10)
also crucial is funding. our government is not offering enough support to sexual health clinics to deliver the care that is needed - currently resources that are allocated to PrEP and STI testing are being put under severe strain to carry out the vaccination programme. (6/10)
if you’re looking for homophobia, there’s plenty. from the lack of organised funding to those taking the opportunity to discriminate, stereotype or shame those at risk. (7/10)