Manitoba opens new monkeypox vaccination appointments

Vaccination once morest the virus is a preventative measure taken by the province, as no cases of the disease have been detected so far in Manitoba.

The province says in a statement that it will open more appointment slots and that eligible people who want to be vaccinated can make an appointment now.

Immunization appointments can be made by calling Info Santé at [phone], 1 [phone] (toll free) or on the Manitoba Immunization Service website.

Men who have sex with men and meet one of the following criteria are eligible for the vaccine:

• Have been diagnosed with gonorrhea, chlamydia or syphilis within the last two months;

• Have had sex with at least two people in the last 21 days or plan to do so;

• Have had anonymous sex in the last 21 days or plan to do so;

• Having frequented places where sexual contact occurs (for example, bathhouses or swingers’ clubs), or intending to do so;

• Have been a sex worker or client of a sex worker, or plan to do so.

People who have been in close contact with someone with the disease can also be vaccinated.

Monkeypox can be transmitted to anyone, but currently worldwide it primarily affects men who have sex with men.

Starting next week, the province will provide regular online updates on vaccination once morest the virus.

Manitoba’s Chief Medical Officer of Health will speak to the press at 2 p.m. More details to come.