The guide covers critical information about monkeypox, syphilis, and COVID-19. 

ALLENTOWN, PA – In light of the recent monkeypox outbreak, Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center has created a comprehensive public health guide that educates LGBTQ+ community members about monkeypox, syphilis, and COVID-19.

The Pride Guide to Public Health dispels myths about each virus, sharing critical information about the spread, signs and symptoms, and steps to take.

“The key takeaway from this guide is understanding the differences in how each of the diseases spread, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chrystina Obleschuk, MPH, health equity programs manager at Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center. “Monkeypox and COVID-19 have two very different disease pathways. Monkeypox is spread through direct contact with sores or bodily fluids of an infected individual.”

Though the monkeypox outbreak has yet to reach the Lehigh Valley, the city of Allentown continues to experience a large-scale outbreak of syphilis. Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center expanded testing access earlier this year to include syphilis as part of the center’s Get Tested Tuesdays.

“As Pride season continues, it is critical that we inform our community about the various health risks involved with larger gatherings,” added Katie Suppes, director of programs, research, and evaluation at Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center. “We strongly encourage our community to make the most informed decisions possible while celebrating Pride safely.”

The guide is available online at BradburySullivanCenter.org/Health, and Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center staff attending regional Pride events have print copies for community members.

About Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center: (www.BradburySullivanCenter.org)

 

Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center provides arts, health, youth, and Pride programs to strengthen and support the LGBTQ+ community across the Greater Lehigh Valley.