(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The state of Illinois is stepping up its response to the monkeypox virus.
Gov. JB Pritzker on Monday announced on social media he has issued a public health emergency declaration for the virus, also known as MPV.
The declaration is designed to expand resources and coordination efforts aimed at stopping the spread of the virus.
The Illinois Department of Public Health reports 520 cases of monkeypox in Illinois, with most of those cases in Chicago.
“We have seen this virus disproportionately impact the LGBTQ+ community in its initial spread,” Pritzker said. “We will ensure our LGBTQ+ community has the resources they need to stay safe while ensuring members are not stigmatized as they access critical health care.”
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