According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the offer of an mpox vaccine has been extended in London due to an increase in infections. .
Health officials reported that over the past few weeks, there have been 11 cases of mpox, also known as monkeypox, in London.
At the end of July, the remainder of the nation will stop the immunization program as scheduled.
Then, eligible individuals will have to travel to a London clinic to receive the shot.
Last summer, a worldwide outbreak of mpox was discovered, primarily affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Vaccinations were a component of the response.
A second dose extends the first's protection against the virus, which is about 78% effective.
Since last year, when there were once about 35 cases a day discovered, there have been fewer cases in the UK. In 2023, there were just 21 cases.
11 have, however, been found in London since about the beginning of May. Most were found in those who had opted not to receive the vaccination.
Along with a fever, headache, and muscle aches, the virus also causes a rash and distinct lesions that can last for weeks.
We are expanding mpox vaccinations in London because, according to Prof Susan Hopkins, the UKHSA's chief medical advisor, it is critical that we respond to recent increases in cases.
"If you have sex, live in London or frequently travel there or abroad, and are eligible for vaccination, please do take it into consideration. ".
She claimed that stopping the disease's progression and spread through vaccination was essential.
After a "worrying" increase in cases, Dr. Claire Dewsnap, president of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, said she "strongly" encouraged people to get the vaccine.
This is especially crucial as we head into the summer months, when festivals and other social gatherings are more frequent and people are more likely to have multiple sexual partners, she said.
Gay, bisexual, and other men who engage in group sex, participate in sex with multiple partners, or frequent sex on premises establishments like gay saunas or fetish venues are among those who are eligible for the vaccine. There is also eligibility for the employees.
Although it is much less severe than smallpox, it is brought on by a virus that belongs to the same family.
Fever, headaches, swollen joints, back pain, and sore muscles are among the initial symptoms.
Once the fever appears, a rash may appear. It frequently starts on the face before moving to other areas of the body, most frequently the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Anyone who has the virus should avoid having sex while they are experiencing symptoms in order to help prevent spreading it to others.
