In view of the spread of monkey pox outside Africa, the Permanent Vaccination Commission (Stiko) in Germany, unlike Austria, is in favor of vaccinating contact persons and certain risk groups. The smallpox vaccine Imvanex, which has already been approved in the EU, can be used for this, Stiko, based at the Robert Koch Institute, announced on Thursday.
Since the vaccine is initially only available to a limited extent, contact persons are preferable for the time being. Vaccination consists of two doses of vaccine given at least 28 days apart. For people who have already been vaccinated against smallpox in the past, a single vaccination is sufficient.
Preventive protection for risk groups
The agency recommends vaccination within 14 days of exposure to the virus for those who have had close physical contact with infected people or medical personnel without adequate personal protective equipment.
The risk groups include Stiko men who have same-sex sexual contacts with changing partners, as well as employees in special laboratories after a risk assessment. According to the Stiko, they should protect themselves preventively if there is sufficient vaccine available.
According to information from Stiko, more than 130 cases of monkey pox have been reported in Germany so far. Symptoms include fever, headache, and rash, which usually start on the face and spread to the rest of the body. The disease is usually mild.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
