While there may only be 10 confirmed monkeypox cases in Scotland, health officials have released new guidance around vaccines.
The viral infection mainly occurs in central and western Africa, but a number of monkeypox cases have made their way to the UK in recent weeks.
Public Health Scotland announced the country’s first confirmed case on May 23. Latest figures show there are now 10 cases in Scotland.
Generally, the risk of catching it in Scotland is low, and patients usually recover by themselves over the course of a few weeks.
Some people are now being offered the vaccine if they’re at a higher risk of catching the virus.
What is the monkeypox vaccine offered in Scotland?
Rather than a specific jab for monkeypox, the vaccine for smallpox is administered instead. In the UK, this is Imvanex.
It has been used in response to previous monkeypox incidents, but isn’t specifically licenced as a preventative measure elsewhere in Europe.
The jab works by helping the immune system produce its own antibodies, and doesn’t contain or cause smallpox.
Who can get the jab?
Public Health Scotland says vaccination is currently only recommended for those at a higher risk of developing monkeypox.
This includes people who have had “significant contact” with someone who has a confirmed case.
It’s most effective when given within four days of exposure, but can be administered up to two weeks later.
Anyone who does come into contact with the virus is also advised to self-isolate for 21 days to limit potential spread.
Some healthcare workers in high-risk settings, such as those caring for a monkeypox patient, are also offered the vaccine.
Health chiefs say one dose should be sufficient for providing immediate and some longer-term protection.
However, some people with a “foreseeable occupational risk” of the virus may get a second jab.
Is the monkeypox vaccine safe?
Some people receiving the monkeypox jab will experience side effects like any other medication, including the likes of headache, tiredness and swelling.
Imanvex was green-lit for EU use in adults against smallpox in 2013, but is currently not approved against monkeypox.
In the US, however, the same jab was given Food and Drug Administration approval against smallpox and monkeypox in 2019.
To meet these criteria it had to be deemed safe and, as with all vaccines, it is routinely monitored.
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