NHS rolls out second dose of Mpox vaccine to those eligible
The NHS is now offering the second Mpox vaccine to everyone who is eligible, offering long term protection against the virus.
Almost 68,000 people have been vaccinated against Mpox since the first cases in this outbreak were identified in England in May this year.
The second Mpox vaccination offers long lasting protection, and can be given from around two – three months after the first dose. People will be invited by their sexual health clinic when they are due their second jab.
The vaccine offers 78% protection against the virus from just one dose, a month after receiving it, according to new research by UKHSA.
People who are eligible for the vaccine are those at greatest risk of exposure- in line with UKHSA guidance. This includes eligible gay, bisexual and/or men who have sex with men (GBMSM), along with specific frontline staff and those who have been in close contact with a confirmed case.
To date, there are 3,544 confirmed cases in England and three potential cases.
Those eligible for their first vaccine can still use NHS England’s Mpox vaccine site finder, which includes over 60 sites across the country, to find their nearest vaccination clinic – the finder allows people to receive their vaccination confidentially if they choose to.
Steve Russell, NHS National Director of Vaccinations and Screening, said:
“The second Mpox vaccine will offer essential long-lasting protection, so I urge everyone eligible to come forward when invited, as a few minutes of your time in exchange for long-lasting protection is a good deal.
“Thanks to the efforts of staff, we have already vaccinated almost 68,000 people who are eligible and for those who are yet to get their first vaccine, our Mpox site finder makes it easier than ever to find your nearest site, so please don’t hesitate to get that first important dose.”
Common signs of Mpox infection include fever, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, and the development of a new rash.
Anyone who thinks they have symptoms of Mpox should limit interactions with others and contact their local sexual health clinic or phone 111. You should not visit A&E or your GP.
Anyone can get Mpox, however currently most cases have been in men who are gay, bisexual and/or men who have sex with men, so it’s particularly important for these people to be aware of the symptoms.
The infection is passed on mainly through close intimate contact in interconnected sexual networks but Mpox can also be spread from person to person through touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with the Mpox rash or by touching Mpox skin blisters or scabs.