A monkeypox vaccination might be given to vulnerable Australians as early as next week as the government attempts to stem the rising case count.
In Australia, 53 instances of monkeypox have been documented, while 25,000 cases have been reported worldwide.
The ACAM2000 monkeypox vaccine, which may be taken either before or after exposure to the virus, is presently available in Australia.
People receiving it must take measures and cover the injection site until the scab breaks off, unlike those receiving other vaccinations. There are also uncommon but severe negative effects connected to it.
JYNNEOS, a third-generation vaccination option, is less likely to cause adverse effects while also being simpler to administer.
The government has recently acquired extra doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, which may be administered either before or after exposure to monkeypox, according to health minister Mark Butler.
‘We’ve secured supplies of new third generation vaccines,’ he said in a statement.
More information on the vaccine deployment is expected to be released later today, but it’s probable that the states and territories will provide vaccinations to those who are at risk for the virus.
For some populations, such as those who engage in frequent sexual contact with other males and sex workers, the ATAGI has advised that immunization be taken into consideration.
Close physical contact is how monkeypox is spread, and most cases affect guys who have sex with other men.
Unusual skin lesions or rashes that develop are distinguishable signs.
Monkeypox patients must remain isolated for up to 21 days after their lesions have finished healing.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr. Kerry Chant issued a warning in May urging homosexual men in particular to be on the lookout for signs and to get care right away if they are worried.
‘We know it’s transmitted by that close skin to skin contact – you can be infectious and that close droplet contact in a very sort of close prolonged way,’ Dr Chant said.
‘We’re particularly urging men who are gay or bisexual, or men who have sex with men, to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact by phone a sexual health clinic or GP without delay if they have any concerns.’
The Australian Federation of AIDS Organizations’ interim CEO, Heath Paynter, praised the Commonwealth for procuring the vaccinations.
‘The swift procurement of these vaccines is a very positive step. While local transmission of Monkeypox has so far been limited, we can’t rely on that to continue.
‘The availability of MPX vaccine for people who need it is a critical forward defence against transmission. It will help people look after their own health as well as that of people they are intimate with.
‘Gay and bisexual men are already taking Monkeypox very seriously, monitoring for symptoms and regularly seeking medical advice. This is a very welcome additional tool.’
The crucial next step is vaccination, according to Alexis Apostolellis, CEO of the Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine: “Australia’s clinical workforce has learnt a lot over the past two months about how to identify, treat, and prevent monkeypox.”