Vaccinations against mpox are to be extended in London following a recent spike in cases, with a large proportion in those who had not received any vaccinations, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced today.
The nationwide mpox outbreak vaccination programme is due to come to a close at the end of July, however vaccinations will continue to be available beyond this date in London after a number of new cases were diagnosed within the past few weeks.
Richard Angell, Chief Executive of Terrence Higgins Trust, said: 'It might have been at the 11th hour but, with our partners at Love Tank and National AIDS Trust, we have won an extension to the mpox vaccine programme for London and agreement that clinicians outside London will be able to use stocks for second doses as first doses for those travelling to London or abroad for sex-based events.
'This is response to a small outbreak – just a few cases in the capital. The change will mean gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men can take charge of their sexual health and prevent another summer of anxiety. We will not stop until mpox is eliminated in the UK.'
Half of the recent 13 cases were in unvaccinated individuals and three were in those who had only received one dose. The highest risk from mpox is currently in London and that is where the majority of cases have been detected so far this year. Nationally, vaccine remains available for those seeking a second dose for the next six weeks.
UKHSA is closely monitoring new cases and is working with NHS England and partners to assess feasibility of further options for vaccine availability around the country, particularly in response to any new clusters. After the end of July, people who do not live in London but are regularly travelling there or abroad to have sex will be able to book a London-based appointment using the vaccine finder.
Everyone at highest risk from mpox is eligible for two doses of the vaccine. UKHSA data has shown that one dose of the vaccine offers 78% protection against the virus from 14 days after receiving it, and the second dose aims to provide longer term protection.
Those eligible for the vaccine include gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men who have multiple sexual partners, participate in group sex or attend sex on premises venues. Staff who work in these premises are also eligible.
