In response to the increased spread of the Mpox virus, France will open new vaccination centers to combat monkeypox. What will be the criteria for access to this vaccination?
Tl;dr
- New monkeypox vaccination centres are opening in France to combat the Mpox virus.
- Two vaccines, Imvanex® and Jynneos®, are available for this disease.
- Vaccination is recommended for certain population categories and after exposure to the virus.
- Vaccination is free and does not require a prescription, but an appointment is necessary.
A necessary response to a growing viral threat
The monkeypox virus, also known as Mpox, is under increased surveillance by French health authorities. A more virulent strain of this virus is spreading not only in Africa, but also in Europe, where a case has been confirmed in Sweden. In response to this threat, France is strengthening its vaccination system. Government spokesman Gabriel Attal announced the opening of “232 vaccination sites”with more to come.
Available weapons: Imvanex® and Jynneos®
To counter the spread of monkeypox, two vaccines are currently available in France: Imvanex® and Jynneos®. These two vaccines are produced by the Danish laboratory Bavarian Nordic. Imvanex® has been used since 2013 for the prevention of smallpox in adults. It received a Marketing Authorization (MA) on July 25, 2022 for the prevention of monkeypox. The Jynneos® vaccine has been granted a MA in the United States since 2019 and has been authorized for import into France.
The vaccine against the Mpox virus is particularly offered to individuals at risk, such as men who have sex with men, trans people and professionals in places of sexual consumption. The High Authority of Health (HAS) specified that “For people who have already been infected with the virus, the natural immunity conferred by the infection makes their vaccination unnecessary”.
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To get vaccinated, simply make an appointment on the Sante.fr website or on Doctolib. Vaccination is free and does not require a prescription, but an appointment is necessary.
How effective is the vaccine?
According to the Pasteur Institute, the smallpox vaccine is 85% effective in combating the Mpox virus. However, the DGS points out that “Vaccination does not provide immediate protection, so it is important to continue to avoid any risky contact with a person infected with the Monkeypox virus or suspected of being infected.”.
Editorial opinion
Strengthening vaccination against monkeypox in France is a salutary measure in the face of the spread of this virus. Even if the vaccine does not offer immediate protection, it is an essential step in slowing the progression of this disease. It is crucial that people at risk become aware of the need to be vaccinated. The role of the media and health professionals in raising awareness and providing information is therefore essential.
