High-risk Nova Scotians can start booking appointments for a second dose of monkeypox vaccine.
The two doses of Imvamune need to be given at least 28 days apart.
“We are following NACI’s recommendations by expanding the eligibility of the vaccine and offering second doses to those at highest risk,” said Dr. Jesse Kancir, medical officer of health responsible for monkeypox in a news release.
“While second dose appointments are now available, I want to remind people who are eligible that it is not too late to get your first dose. Getting vaccinated can help protect against a potential monkeypox infection.”
In order to be eligible, the following criteria must be met:
1. Identify as a cisgender or transgender queer man, a two-spirit person or a non-binary person who has sexual contact with a cisgender or transgender queer man, a two-spirit person or a non-binary person and meets at least one of the following criteria:
- two or more sexual partners since May as defined above, or is planning to
- a diagnosis of a bacterial sexually transmitted infection since May
- attended, worked at, or volunteered at an event/social venue for sexual contact, such as a bath house or sex club, since May, or is planning to
- had anonymous sex since May, or is planning to
- engaged as a worker or a client in sex work since May, or is planning to.
Or
2. Have sexual contact with someone who meets the above criteria.
It’s also only for Nova Scotia residents, or for those living in the province for prolonged periods. The Department of Health and Wellness offers up the examples of post-second students or those who are here for work
Haligonians can head to the Halifax Sexual Health Centre on Bayers Road to get either dose for free up until at least Thursday, November 10.
Appointments can be booked online. Anyone who need help or doesn’t have a Nova Scotia health card can call the Halifax Sexual Health Centre at 902-455-9656, ext 0.
More information about monkeypox can be found at novascotia.ca/monkeypox/.
