Anyone who is eligible to receive the monkeypox vaccination has been advised to book an appointment soon as the programme will soon be coming to an end in Greater Manchester.
The year-long roll-out is due to finish in the city-region next week. Those looking to get a first dose vaccination from the virus, also known as mpox, have until June 16 to book an appointment.
Second doses can be booked through selected sexual health services until July 23. This will also mean that anyone who gets their first dose in the last week of the programme will still be able to get their second.
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NHS Greater Manchester said more than 3,500 people in the area have been vaccinated against monkeypox since the programme was first launched last year.
Due to a recent increase in the number of cases of the virus in London, the NHS is encouraging anyone at risk who hasn’t started or completed their vaccination to do so.
The vaccine is available to gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men at the highest risk of getting monkeypox, such as those who have multiple partners or participate in group sex.
People who have had recent close contact with someone infected with monkeypox and healthcare workers caring for patients with the virus are also eligible.
Jane Pilkington, Director of Population Health for NHS Greater Manchester, said: “While we are really pleased with the success of the vaccination programme, with a decrease in cases of monkeypox seen across the UK as a whole – the recent report of an increase in cases in London serves as a reminder that we still need to be careful.
“People need to not only continue following advice given about how to recognise potential symptoms and what actions will keep themselves safe, but also anyone at the highest risk who hasn’t already should take up the vaccine offer while it is still available.
“It is important that, when able to, individuals receive their second dose of the vaccine, at least 28 days after receiving their first. This helps maximise their protection against the virus, protecting them and those around them.
“Please remember, that as with any vaccine, it won’t give 100% protection, and won’t be effective straight away, so stay alert for symptoms and call NHS 111 or a local sexual health clinic if you have signs of monkeypox, even if it’s just one spot.”
Vaccinations are available through selected sexual health services. The nearest service to you can be found here.
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