The Irish government has purchased 15,000 vaccines in response to the ongoing monkeypox crisis.
The vaccines were bought through the HSE upon reaching a deal with Danish biotechnology company Bavarian Nordic. The vaccines, which are used to treat smallpox, offer some protection against the emerging monkeypox virus for at risk groups.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly confirmed that the deal with the manufacturer would see 5,000 of the vaccines issued in Ireland before the end of the year. The remaining 10,000 vaccines are to be delivered here in 2023.
READ MORE : Return of mask wearing on public transport a 'no-brainer', says health expert
The Minister stated in a press release: “It is heartening to see the demand for monkeypox vaccines among the population that would benefit most and I’m encouraging those who haven’t yet had the opportunity, to book an appointment in the coming weeks when they become available.”
The deal was brokered as vaccine appointments remain fully booked up for the month of October. The HSE originally estimated that between 6,000 to 13,000 people who could benefit from receiving the vaccine.
There are currently 200 registered cases of the disease in Ireland. Symptoms of the disease include muscle aches, painful rashes and swollen lymph nodes.
HIV Ireland and other advocacy groups previously criticised the rollout of the vaccine as being too slow. There are now several vaccine centres nationwide, including the Mater, St James and St Vincent’s Hospital.
The vaccine is administered in two doses, given 28 days apart from each other. The vaccine can now be given intradermally, meaning that a greater amount of people can receive a dose from a single vaccine vial. The HSE intends to have all high priority groups for the disease vaccinated by the end of the year.
Further appointments will be made available for uptake of the vaccine in November. Bookings and queries about eligibility can be made via the HSE’s online portal.
READ MORE
'My mum died just a few weeks after being diagnosed with a brain tumour'
Dublin mum slams lack of supports for daughter's incurable 'Butterfly Skin' disease
-
HSE confirms monkeypox vaccine appointments are fully booked up
Cancer vaccines will likely be introduced by 2030, according to experts
Parents urged to take children between two and 17-years-old to get nasal spray flu vaccine
Sign up to the Dublin Live Newsletter to get all the latest Dublin news straight to your inbox.
