The NHS is now offering the second monkeypox vaccine dose to everyone who is eligible, offering long term protection against the virus.
Almost 68,000 people have been vaccinated against monkeypox since the first cases were identified in England in May this year.
The second monkeypox vaccination offers long lasting protection and can be given from around two to three months after the first dose.
Eligible people will be invited by their sexual health clinic when they are due their second jab.
The vaccine offers 78% protection against the virus from just one dose, 14 days after receiving it, according to research by UKHSA.
Those eligible for the vaccine are those at greatest risk – this includes eligible gay, bisexual and/or men who have sex with men (GBMSM), aswell as specific frontline staff and those who have been in close contact with a confirmed case.
There are over 60 vaccine sites across the country, those eligible can use NHS England’s monkeypox vaccine site finder online to find their nearest location.
The only vaccination site in Dorset is the Kings Park Unit in Boscombe, there are also vaccination centres in Taunton and Salisbury.
Steve Russell, NHS Director of Vaccinations and Screening, said: “The second monkeypox vaccine will offer essential long-lasting protection, so I urge everyone eligible to come forward when invited, as a few minutes of your time in exchange for long-lasting protection is a good deal.
“Thanks to the efforts of staff, we have already vaccinated almost 68,000 people who are eligible and for those who are yet to get their first vaccine, our monkeypox site finder makes it easier than ever to find your nearest site, so please don’t hesitate to get that first important dose.”
