Monkeypox Vaccine Clinic Opening Near Wayne: What To Know

TOTOWA, NJ — The Passaic County Department of Health Services is holding monkeypox vaccine clinics. Shots will be available by appointment only at 930 Riverview Dr., Ste. 250, Totowa.

See the vaccine clinic's flyer here.

Passaic County has seen 15 monkeypox cases as of Thursday afternoon, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. The state's case count grew by more than 100 in the last week to 293.

The state health department updated its monkeypox FAQ on Thursday, adding children younger than 8 to its list of people more likely to get seriously ill or die from the disease. Individuals with weakened immune systems, a history of skin problems such as eczema or who are pregnant or breastfeeding also carry a higher risk.

New Jersey hasn't reported any monkeypox deaths as of Thursday afternoon. Cases from the global outbreak — first detected in May — have rarely been fatal. But monkeypox can be very painful, and the rash can cause permanent scars, the state health department says.

Passaic County's monkeypox vaccine clinic is appointment-only, taking place from 4:30-8 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. High-risk individuals and people exposed to the disease within the last 14 days are eligible.

No insurance is required, and vaccination is free. Anyone with questions about receiving the vaccine should contact their health care provider.

Here's more monkeypox info from the state health department.