A strategy released today by the UK’s Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recommends that some gays and bisexual men at higher risk of monkeypox be offered vaccines to help control the recent outbreak.
Although anyone can get monkeypox, data from the latest outbreak shows higher levels of transmission within – but not limited to – gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.
Currently, the virus is not defined as a sexually transmitted infection, but it can be transmitted through close and intimate contact that occurs during sex.
In response, the UK Health Insurance Agency’s (UKHSA) vaccination strategy recommends that the Imvanex measles vaccine, which has been shown to be effective against monkeypox, be offered to men who are thought to be exposed to -high risk of exposure.
The strategy was approved by the Joint Vaccination and Immunization Committee (JCVI), which was consulted on the eligibility criteria for the vaccine.
A person’s eligibility will depend on a number of factors, but would be similar to the criteria used to assess those eligible for pre-exposure HIV prevention (PrEP) – but apply regardless of HIV status.
The strategy states that a clinician may recommend vaccination for someone who, for example, has multiple partners, engages in group sex, or visits “on-site sex” sites.
NHS England needs to set out the details of how eligible people can be vaccinated soon. People are advised not to come for the vaccine until they have been contacted.
Dr Mary Ramsey, Head of Immunization at UKHSA, said:
Our extensive contact tracking work has helped curb the spread of the monkeypox virus, but we continue to see a significant proportion of gays, bisexuals, and other men who have sex with men. By extending the supply of vaccines to those at higher risk, we hope to break the chain of transmission and help control the outbreak.
Although most cases are mild, some people can develop a serious illness, so it is important to use the available vaccine to target groups where the spread continues. The NHS will soon reveal details on how it will be delivered – so don’t go out for the vaccine yet.
Meanwhile, everyone should continue to be on the lookout for any new spots, ulcers or blisters on any part of their body, especially if they have had close contact with a new partner. If you think you may have these symptoms, avoid close contact with others and call NHS 111 or your local sexual health center, but please call in advance before attending.
Alex Sparrowhock, a health promotion specialist at the Terrence Higgins Trust, said:
This targeted vaccination program is a positive step forward, while data still show that monkeypox disproportionately affects gay and bisexual men in the UK.
We encourage everyone, regardless of their sexual affiliation, to be vigilant for new spots, ulcers and blisters. We continue to closely monitor the latest data to play our part in providing the latest guidelines and health information on monkeypox to enable the most affected communities to best protect their health.
Robbie de Santos, director of communications and foreign affairs at Stonewall, said:
Although we know that anyone can get monkeypox, we welcome the vaccine to those gays and men who meet the conditions and are currently at higher risk of contracting the virus.
It is important for gays and men to get the vaccine when they are offered it to protect themselves and others. Let us help control the epidemic so that we can all have a safe and happy season of pride.
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