The list of people who can be vaccinated against monkeypox has expanded, and dedicated centers are gradually opening in French regions.
- No deaths have been reported in France and Europe.
- The monkeypox virus is transmitted by direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes of a sick person, and by droplets.
- The pathology is more serious in children and in immunocompromised people.
A case of contamination by monkey pox, called Monkeypox, has been confirmed in Martinique. The Regional Health Agency announced it on Friday July 15. According to the last status report of Public Health Francepublished on July 13, 912 cases have been confirmed in France, including more than 550 in Ile-de-France.
Extended vaccination
Faced with the rise in cases, the Ministry of Health has expanded the vaccination campaign. When the first infections were reported in France, people considered to be at risk contacts, and having been exposed to the virus, were the only ones to have access to injections. In total, more than 700 vaccinations were carried out in this way.
Since July 7, the High Authority for Health has recommended that all people at risk get vaccinated: men who have sex with men (MSM) and trans people, in both cases, multi-partners; people in a situation of prostitution; professionals working in places of sexual consumption. “Vaccination can also be considered on a case-by-case basis for health professionals who have to take care of sick people.says the Ministry of Health.
How is the vaccination going?
A smallpox vaccine is used to protect against Monkeypox. It is given in two doses, injected 28 days apart. People who have already been vaccinated against smallpox receive a single dose, and immunocompromised people receive three. To be vaccinated, you must self-declare yourself as a person at risk, or a contact case.
Sufficient doses
The first vaccination center has opened in Ile-de-France, given the high number of cases in the region, and others are expected to open in all French regions in the coming weeks. The Ministry of Health provides a listing listing all the establishments offering vaccination, but specifies that there may be delays given the high demand. However, he wishes to reassure on the quantity of vaccines available: “The health authorities confirm that all persons concerned by the HAS indications can be vaccinated..
In the weeks following the injections, we must remain vigilant. “Vaccination does not confer immediate protection, so it is important to continue to avoid any risky contact with a person infected with the Monkeypox virus or suspected of having it.says the Ministry of Health.
