Mpox Vaccine Rollout to Wind Down as Cases Plunge
The monkeypox (mpox) outbreak in England is finally under control. With case numbers dropping sharply, health chiefs say the targeted mpox vaccination programme can be scaled back this summer. But if you’re eligible, now’s the time to get jabbed before the offer ends.
Mpox Cases Crash – Vaccine Success Cited
England has seen a dramatic fall in mpox cases, from 350 a week in July 2022 to just six so far in 2023. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) credits the vaccination effort for slashing infections and controlling the outbreak.
First vaccine doses remain available for gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men (GBMSM) at highest risk until 16 June, with second doses offered through July. UKHSA will keep a close watch and can restart the programme if cases climb.
Officials Urge Eligible to Complete Vaccination
“While mpox infection is mild for many, it can cause severe symptoms for some,” said Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director at UKHSA. “Vaccination is key to reducing symptoms and stopping spread. Only about a third who got a first dose have had their second.”
“I urge everyone eligible to get both doses for long-lasting protection. Huge thanks to NHS staff and frontline teams who helped bring down cases. We will monitor mpox carefully and restart vaccinations if needed.”
One jab offers 78% protection from 14 days after vaccination, with a second dose giving longer-term immunity. More than 67,000 have received a first dose and over 26,000 the second since June 2022.
Vaccines to Continue for High-Risk Groups
While the mass programme winds down, vaccines will still be offered to health workers caring for mpox patients, sexual health clinic staff, and close contacts at high risk — including children under five, immunosuppressed individuals, and pregnant women.
Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: “It’s brilliant to see mpox cases falling thanks to our targeted vaccine rollout. I thank NHS and frontline teams for protecting those most at risk. If you’re eligible, get your jab before the programme ends this summer.”
NHS vaccination boss Steve Russell added: “The NHS response was fast and precise, leading to a huge fall in mpox transmission. There’s still time to get your first and second doses for lasting protection – book now.”
Community Drive Boosts Vaccine Take-Up
In February, £200,000 was awarded to 14 schemes across England to boost sexual health outreach and mpox vaccine uptake. Initiatives include mobile clinics at pubs and festivals, awareness campaigns in sex venues, and reducing vaccine hesitancy.
Lauren Duffy, Head of Sexual Health at LGBT Foundation, said: “Our community workshop helped create key messages now used to boost confidence around the mpox vaccine and sexual health. We couldn’t have done it without this funding and are proud to help get more people vaccinated.”
The UK was first in the world to spot the mpox outbreak and swiftly launched vaccination to protect the most vulnerable. The government remains committed to stamping out mpox transmission once and for all.
