Author: Graham Robson

Vaccinations against mpox are to be extended in London following a recent cluster of cases, with most in those who had not been vaccinated, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced.

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 11 new cases were diagnosed within the past few weeks.

The majority of these 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, primarily in interconnected sexual networks of gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and that is where the majority of cases have been detected so far this year. Nationally, vaccine remains available for the next six weeks.

UKHSA is monitoring the situation and working with NHS England (NHSE) 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 and are eligible for the vaccine will be able to book a London-based appointment using the vaccine finder.

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.

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said: “It is vital we respond to recent rises in cases, and that is why we are extending mpox vaccinations in London. If you live in London or regularly travel there or abroad and have sex and are eligible for vaccination, please do consider it.

“The vaccination programme remains open nationwide for everyone eligible until the end of July, and I would urge all those who haven’t yet received their first or second dose to come forward.

“While mpox infection is mild for many, it can cause severe symptoms including unusual rashes and blisters, a fever and headache, so it’s important people remain alert to the risks. Vaccination is key to reducing the severity of symptoms and preventing further transmission.”

Dr Claire Dewsnap, President of the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV, said:“We strongly encourage all those eligible to book an appointment to receive an mpox vaccination, especially given the worrying recent spike in cases.

“One dose of the vaccine provides protection against the virus and the second dose can further prevent severe symptoms and transmission. This is particularly important as we move into the summer months, during which festivals and events are more common, increasing the likelihood for people to have multiple sexual partners.

“Contact your local sexual health clinic and ask about the mpox vaccine, or if you have an existing appointment please do use this opportunity to find out more about mpox vaccination. Protect yourself by booking your mpox vaccination today.”

Case numbers remain low nationwide with just 21 cases of mpox reported in the UK since the beginning of the year.

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.

Find your nearest mpox vaccination site HERE