1. Monkeypox Virus Vaccine in South Australia
SHINE SA, 11th August 2022
The situation with monkeypox virus and vaccine availability is changing quickly. Limited monkeypox (MPX) vaccine appointments are now available in SA.
As there is currently very limited supply of MPX Vaccine in SA, SHINE SA have been advised by SA Health that until further notice, eligibility is limited to people who meet the following criteria:
- vaccination for close contacts of MPX cases (i.e. vaccination after exposure to monkeypox virus to help prevent monkeypox disease);
- vaccination for prevention of monkeypox for:
- all male sex workers with gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) clients;
- staff and clients of sex on premises venues;
- other sexually active GBMSM on assessment and recommendation from accredited HIV S100 Prescribers or publicly funded sexual health clinics.
Since there is a limited supply of vaccines, we need to prioritise vaccination of those that meet the above criteria.
SHINE SA have opened an expressions of interest form for those that meet the current criteria: SHINE SA MPX Vaccine Expressions of Interest Form
It’s important to remember that MPX vaccine does not prevent all infections. As there is still a risk of infection following vaccination, it’s important to take preventive action and be aware of MPX symptoms.
More information on MPX including symptoms, treatment and prevention is available via SA Health.
SHINE SA and SA Health will release further information as more vaccines become available in the future.
2. For clinicians: Updated Clinical Guidance on Monkeypox vaccines
Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), Updated 22nd July 2022
This guidance is on the use of smallpox vaccines for protection against monkeypox virus infection.
This advice will continue to be updated as new information emerges during the current multicountry monkeypox outbreak.
3. Monkeypox Virus (MPXV) Information aimed at GBMSM & PLHIV
SAMESH, Updated August 2022
The situation with monkeypox virus (MPXV) and vaccine availability is changing quickly. While it’s vital that international travellers are aware of what MPXV is and how it is spread – there have also been cases acquired here in Australia. It’s time for everyone to become familiar with MPXV.
Monkeypox (MPXV) vaccine appointments are now available in SA.
4. Monkeypox Podcast with Dr Kasha Singh from the Doherty Institute (30 minutes)
Well, Well, Well Podcast (JOY and Thorne Harbour Health), Recorded May 26th, 2022
What is monkeypox? Dr Kasha Singh from the Doherty Institute’s Department of Infectious Diseases discusses the current monkeypox outbreaks.
She talks about who is at risk of infection, and what the symptoms and treatments currently involve.
For all SASHA posts about monkeypox, click here