The current monkeypox outbreak is almost over. The vaccination campaign to prevent the spread of monkeypox, commonly referred to as monkeypox, will soon end. The number of new infections has been very low for a few weeks, which means that the campaign can stop. Nevertheless, the disease can still thrive and there are still infections.
Last summer, all GGD (Municipal Health Service) and started a vaccination campaign against monkeypox. The aim of the campaign was to break the spread of the rapidly increasing outbreak. People with a high risk of becoming infected were invited to be vaccinated.
Goal achieved
After a peak in the number of infections in the summer, the number of monkeypox infections decreased to a few infections per week. For example, only 9 people have been diagnosed with the virus in the past 2 weeks. Due to the small number of new infections, the need to vaccinate is no longer present. In addition to vaccinations, changed behavior of the target group and natural immunity after a previous infection have probably led to a decrease in the number of new infections.
The extent of the effect of the vaccinations is not yet known.
Revivals
An expert meeting will meet in November. The expert council will then consider whether vaccinations or other measures may be necessary in the future. Revivals in the summer period or introductions from abroad could lead to more infections again.
two pricks
Until the end of this month, risk groups will be invited to get their first vaccination. The exact moment differs per GGD region. Vaccination against monkeypox usually consists of two injections. The second shot, which is given 4 weeks after the first shot, is still given in November.
Contamination still possible
Although the number of infections is currently low, the disease has not gone away. It therefore remains important to be alert to complaints in yourself and your bed partner. If you are not sure whether you have any complaints, please contact your GP or sexual health centre.