The monkeypox vaccine is 78% effective as soon as two weeks after the first dose, according to data from the UK’s Health Security Agency released Monday.
The study looked at 363 monkeypox cases reported in England between July 4 and November 3 among the vaccine-eligible population (including men who have sex with men).
78% efficiency after 14 days
Of these cases, only eight had been vaccinated at least two weeks before becoming ill and 32 had received a dose within 13 days of contracting the virus.
“This gives an estimated efficacy of the vaccine for a single dose of 78% after 14 days,” the UKHSA health agency said in a statement on Tuesday.
“We now know that a first dose of vaccine provides strong protection against monkeypox,” said UKHSA epidemiologist Jamie Lopez-Bernal. And “although monkeypox cases are few, it is vital to remain vigilant about the risks,” he warned.
55,000 doses administered in the UK
For his part, the head of vaccinations for the NHS public health service, Steve Russell, indicated that “more than 55,000 doses of vaccines have already been administered” in England.
The vaccine from the Bavarian Nordic laboratory, marketed under the name Jynneos in the United States, is the only one specifically approved against monkeypox. It is administered in two doses, 28 days apart.
In September, US data had already highlighted that this vaccine was highly effective from the first dose, highlighting that unvaccinated people were 14 times more likely to be infected with monkeypox than vaccinated ones.
declining epidemic
The disease, endemic in some West African countries, is characterized by rashes, which can appear on the genitals or in the mouth, and may be accompanied by bouts of fever, sore throat, or tender lymph nodes.
Since May, health authorities have noted outbreaks in Europe and the United States, but the epidemic is now in full decline.
According to figures updated to 21 November, 3,570 confirmed cases and 150 highly probable cases have been identified in the UK.
Source: BFM TV
