San Francisco launches back to school vaccine clinics amid rising monkeypox cases

The San Francisco Health Commission has announced a series of back-to-school vaccine clinics aimed at ensuring all children are prepared for the upcoming school year. The clinics will take place at Zuckerberg San Francisco Hospital and the Southeast Health Center on August 16, 20, and 27, providing essential vaccines, including COVID-19 shots. This initiative is part of a broader effort to make vaccines accessible to families in the community.

In addition to school vaccinations, the commission reported a rise in monkeypox cases, now totaling 563 in San Francisco, predominantly affecting men who have sex with men and trans men. The city has received a shipment of 10,700 monkeypox vaccines and is awaiting further supplies. Access to vaccines has been expanded, with the Zuckerberg clinic now operating from 8 AM to 4 PM, administering between 600 to 700 vaccines daily. Ten vaccine sites across the city, including Kaiser and UCSF, are also available to non-members.

The commission is also working on implementing intradermal injections for the monkeypox vaccine, which would allow a single dose to be divided into five smaller doses, pending approval from state and federal health authorities. This approach aims to enhance vaccine availability amid rising case numbers.

The meeting highlighted the importance of community health initiatives, with a special acknowledgment of Speaker Nancy Pelosi's advocacy for increased resources to combat monkeypox. The Health Commission continues to prioritize public health and accessibility as it navigates these pressing health challenges.