Hello team,
As you may know, we are facing a new national health emergency in mpox. Currently, the United States has reported over 14,000 cases, with numbers rising sharply in recent weeks.
I wanted to take a moment to let you know how to stay safe from the virus and how [COMPANY name] is responding to this latest threat to our health.
About Mpox
The majority of diagnosed cases of monkeypox in the U.S. have been found among men reporting sexual intimacy with other men — but public health officials warn that the current outbreak is likely to spread beyond this community. In fact, anyone can catch the virus through close contact with an infected person. That’s why we must all be aware of monkeypox and how it spreads.
Monkeypox is primarily spread through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or bodily fluids in a person who has the virus. People with monkeypox in the current outbreak generally report having had close, sustained physical contact with other people who have monkeypox. Monkeypox can also be spread through prolonged, close face-to-face contact — think kissing, cuddling or other intimate behavior.
The interactions we commonly have at work — casual, brief conversations; passing by each other in the hall; riding an elevator together; keeping the kind of distance that is typical in a work setting — are not considered modes of transmitting or catching the virus.
Please review the additional information at the bottom of this email for details. If you think you may have mpox, contact your healthcare provider right away.
How We’re Responding
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people at high risk for infection or who've recently been exposed to monkeypox should be vaccinated. In most areas of the country, there aren’t enough monkeypox vaccines to meet current demand, so those most at risk should take extra steps to protect themselves.
[If you have been vaccinated, say so here.] I encourage our colleagues to consider vaccination if you're at higher risk for exposure or if you've recently been exposed. You can contact your health provider or local public health department for information about vaccine clinics. Current wait times are 1 to 4 weeks, depending on your location. If you have trouble finding a vaccine clinic near you, let us know and we’ll help. [COMPANY name] team members are eligible for paid time off for vaccination and recovery from any side effects. [Customize to reflect your company’s benefits.]
Any employee experiencing monkeypox symptoms should not come to work. The illness from monkeypox can last 2 to 4 weeks, so contact human resources at [provide contact information] to comply with our standing policy about multi-day illnesses and the leave available to you. [State here any policies about supplementing paid sick leave with other leave time or assistance your HR department will provide in accessing short-term disability for those who qualify.]
[State here any other new policies, including updates to health self-attestation forms for employees or customers.]
Thank you for continuing to look out for each other’s health and working together to create a safe and supportive work environment for all the members of our team. If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
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