(CNS) - Uber is partnering with a statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization to provide free rides to monkeypox vaccination sites throughout California, officials announced Tuesday.
"As vaccines are becoming increasingly available across our state, it's critical to ensure transportation is not neglected," said Tony Hoang, executive director of Equality California. "We are immensely grateful for our long-standing partnership with Uber and their commitment to full lived equality for all LGBTQ+ people."
The offer is good for round-trip rides up to $30 each way.
"Transportation should never be a barrier to getting vaccinated against the monkeypox virus," said Ramona Prieto, Uber's head of public policy and communications for the western United States. "Uber has been a proud partner of Equality California since 2018 and is thankful for its leadership on this campaign to ensure equitable vaccine access for all communities."
While people of any sexual orientation can get monkeypox, it is primarily impacting gay and bisexual men, particularly in Black and Hispanic communities.
People can claim a code for the rides by visiting eqca.org/monkeypox.
People who walk into a vaccination site have to attest to their eligibility to receive a monkeypox inoculation, and the shot will only be provided if the vaccination location has doses available. Those who want to ensure they receive the vaccine should book appointments online at myturn.ca.gov.
San Diego County information on monkeypox, including vaccine sites, can be found on this link
Monkeypox is generally spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, resulting from infectious rashes and scabs, though respiratory secretions and bodily fluids exchanged during extended physical episodes, such as sexual intercourse, can also lead to transmission, according to the CDC.
It can also be transmitted through the sharing of items such as bedding and towels.
Symptoms include fresh pimples, blisters, rashes, fever and fatigue. There is no specific treatment. People who have been infected with smallpox, or have been vaccinated for it, may have immunity to monkeypox.
According to health officials, the vaccine can prevent infection if given before or shortly after exposure to the virus.
