A strategy released today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recommends that some gay and bisexual men most at risk of monkeypox exposure be offered vaccines to help control the recent outbreak of the virus.
While anyone can contract monkeypox, data from the latest outbreak show higher levels of transmission within, but not limited to, the sexual networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.
Currently, the virus is not defined as a sexually transmitted infection, but can be transmitted by close and intimate contact that occurs during sex.
In response, the UK Health Agency’s (UKHSA) vaccination strategy recommends offering the Imvanex smallpox vaccine, which has been shown to be effective against monkeypox, to men who are considered increased risk of exposure.
The strategy is endorsed by the Joint Vaccination and Immunization Committee (JCVI), which was consulted on the eligibility criteria for the vaccine.
A person’s eligibility would depend on a number of factors, but would be similar to the criteria used to assess those eligible for pre-exposure prophylaxis to HIV (PrEP), but would apply regardless of HIV status.
The strategy states that a doctor may advise vaccinating someone who, for example, has multiple partners, participates in group sex, or attends “sex on the premises” sites.
NHS England needs to set out details on how eligible people can be vaccinated soon. People are advised not to show up for the vaccine until they are contacted.
Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunization at UKHSA, said:
Our extensive contact scanning work has helped limit the spread of the smallpox virus, but we still see a significant proportion of cases in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. By expanding the supply of vaccines to those most at risk, we hope to break the chains of transmission and help contain the outbreak.
Although most cases are mild, some people can get serious illnesses, so it is important that we use the vaccine available for targeted groups where the spread is ongoing. The NHS will soon be setting out details on how this will be delivered, so don’t show up for the vaccine yet.
In the meantime, everyone should stay alert for any blemishes, ulcers or blisters on any part of their body, especially if they have had close contact with a new partner. If you believe you are experiencing these symptoms, avoid close contact with other people and call NHS 111 or your local sexual health center, but please call before attending.
Alex Sparrowhawk, Terrence Higgins Trust Health Promotion Specialist, said:
This targeted vaccination program is a positive development, while data still shows that monkeypox is disproportionately affecting gay and bisexual men in the UK.
We encourage everyone, regardless of their sexuality, to be alert to new spots, ulcers, and blisters. We continue to closely monitor the latest data in order to play our part in providing the latest guidance and health information on monkeypox, to enable the most affected communities to better protect their health.
Robbie de Santos, Director of Communications and External Affairs at Stonewall, said:
While we know that anyone can get the monkey’s smallpox, we welcome the vaccine offered to those gay, bisexual men who are eligible and who are currently at higher risk for the virus.
It is important that gay and bisexual men receive the vaccine when it is offered to protect themselves and others. We help control the outbreak so we can all have a happy and safe season of pride.