Chief Public Health Officer, Nicola Spurrier has announced that limited initial stocks of the new third-generation monkeypox virus (MPX) vaccine have arrived in South Australia.
Professor Spurrier (pictured) said SA Health’s Communicable Disease Control Branch (CDCB) was working directly with publicly-funded sexual health services and accredited HIV S100 medical practitioner prescribers.
“This will ensure vaccines are prioritised to South Australians at highest risk of contracting MPX as outlined by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI),” Professor Spurrier said.
She said that nationally 22,000 doses of the vaccine have been received by the Commonwealth Government’s National Medical Stockpile, with an initial distribution of around 900 doses for South Australia.
“As we see cases rise globally, I’m pleased that this vaccine is now available in Australia for those at the greatest risk of contracting the monkeypox virus, including close contacts of cases,” she said.
“The CDCB is working in close partnership with sexual health services to deliver this initial allocation of the vaccine, using a highly focused rollout, based on advice provided by the SA MPX Vaccine Working Group and following ATAGI guidance.”
Professor Spurrier said that due to the initial limited supply of the vaccine, those at greatest risk would be contacted directly.
“Further guidance regarding eligibility and access for other at-risk groups will be provided as our own South Australian supplies are delivered, expected later in the year,” the State’s Chief Public Health Officer said.
