King County, Washington state has declared monkeypox a public health emergency.

In King County, health officials said they have been responding to the monkey outbreak since May 23, when the first case was reported.

Seattle and King County Public Health Interim Director Dennis Worsham said public health leaders have the flexibility they need “to respond to the most impacted communities, including ensuring equitable access to vaccines.”

“Removing any systemic barriers will help us be as effective as possible as we anticipate a busy fall for public health, health care providers and community partners, including new covid-19 incentives, flu vaccines and prevention of additional cases.” The MPV in our communities,” Worsham said in a statement.