New York health officials on Monday launched a campaign to encourage eligible people to begin the two-dose vaccination series for mpox, the disease formerly known as monkeypox. 

The state Department of Health as well as the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is launching the effort after last summer's spread of the virus in parts of New York state. 

“Last year’s mpox outbreak took place during the spring and summer months and most impacted communities of men who have sex with men and immunocompromised individuals,” Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “This year, while mpox cases are extremely low in New York, cases continue to be diagnosed here in New York and around the globe and there is still a risk of resurgence. We are taking proactive measures now to encourage those at risk to get fully vaccinated by getting both doses. Taking this measure of protection is a gesture of self-love and love for the communities in which you live.”

Anyone can contract mpox, but people in the LGBTQ+ community are considered to be more at risk. The virus can spread through sexual contact. 

The campaign from public health officials will include digital ads, socail media alerts and on search engines. It will run through the middle of the summer.