Yesterday, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in response to California’s ongoing Monkeypox outbreak.

The declaration comes amid a steady increase in Monkeypox cases throughout the state. As of last Thursday, July 28, there are 786 Monkeypox cases and 11 hospitalizations throughout California. The majority of cases are in Los Angeles County and San Francisco County among those aged 25–54. Santa Clara County currently has 41 cases. 

In a press release, the Governor’s office positioned the declaration as a measure that would coordinate a statewide response to vaccination efforts. Specifically, it enables Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to administer Monkeypox vaccines, building on COVID-19 era infrastructure. 

The emergency proclamation makes no mention of testing, education or other measures. The Governor’s office states that the emergency declaration will work in tandem with California Department of Public Health efforts to boost awareness and increase treatment and testing supplies. Read the emergency declaration here.