As of Friday, 52 cases of monkeypox were confirmed in the Dallas County area

Dallas County, TEXAS – According to the health officials, the most effective tool against the disease is the monkeypox vaccine, but the low number of available vaccines makes it hard for those interested to schedule an appointment for vaccination. Dallas County confirmed that a total of 100 vaccines were shipped this week and 300 more were ordered from the federal government, but it remains unclear when that batch will be shipped.

Monkeypox vaccines are currently given to people who have been in contact with someone infected with monkeypox. According to the local health officials, the vaccine works best if administered four days after the first symptoms. The vaccine might be given after that period, but it won’t be that effective in preventing sickness.

Due to the very limited supply, the vaccines are currently given only to those who have been in contact with people infected with monkeypox or those who test positive. Local residents who are interested in getting vaccinated against monkeypox might have to wait months before the vaccine becomes available for everyone.

Globally, only one Danish company produces this particular vaccine, which is the main reason for the low supply worldwide.

As of Friday, a total of 183 monkeypox cases had been reported statewide. Nearly 90 of those cases are in the North Texas area.

Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, says simply the supply of doses coming from the federal government is limited.