30 in Bailiwick receive monkeypox vaccination

The announcement comes just days after the confirmation of a monkeypox case in Jersey.

‘This is a crucial step forward while the data still shows the virus is disproportionately affecting gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men in the UK,’ said Dr Nicola Brink, director of Public Health.

There is currently a limited supply of the vaccine nationwide, and one dose is now being offered to those at the highest risk.

‘As more vaccine supplies become available, more people will be offered the first dose of the vaccine,’ said Dr Brink.

‘Public Health Services are working closely with UKHSA with regard to vaccine supplies for the Bailiwick and we are very grateful for this assistance.’

Public Health has requested that islanders do not contact the department to receive a vaccine, and it has reassured that the team will be in touch with those who have been assessed as requiring vaccination when there is one available.

‘We have access to a vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis for those who are identified as close contacts and meet the criteria for vaccination via our dedicated monkeypox contact tracing team,’ added Dr Brink.

In June, monkeypox was listed as a notifiable disease, meaning that any case confirmed in the Bailiwick must be legally notified to the medical officer of health. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion. Within one to five days a rash develops and goes through stages before finally forming a scab and falling off.

n If a person suspects they may have monkeypox or is concerned, they should contact the Orchard Centre on 01481 227707 from Monday to Friday, or their GP by telephone.