The World Health Organization has called monkeypox a global health emergency, but Brantford-Brant has only recorded one case of the virus.
Of the same family as smallpox, monkeypox is often less severe with flu-like symptoms that include fever, headache, chills, exhaustion, and swollen lymph nodes. A rash can appear on the face but may also spread to other areas of the body several days after the onset of symptoms.
The Brant County Health Unit is offering the second of two monkeypox vaccination clinics for at-risk community members on Wednesday from 4 pm to 6 pm
So far 15 appointments have been booked, while the first clinic on July 21 had just two clients receive the vaccine.
Based on Ontario Ministry of Health guidelines, the at-risk populations are identified as people aged 18 and older that are transgender or cisgender individuals who self-identify as male and belong to the community of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men community.
Additionally, at least one of the following is required for vaccination eligibility:
- Identify as a contact of an individual who recently tested positive for monkeypox
- Have had two or more sexual partners in the past 21 days, or may be planning to
- Have attended sex clubs, bath houses or other venues for sexual contact in the past 21 days, including workers and volunteers at such locations
- Have had anonymous or casual sex in the past 21 days
- Have engaged in, or are planning to take part in, sex work
- Have been diagnosed with a chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis infection over the past two months
The health unit says that the virus typically does not easily spread between people but may occur as a result of intimate or sexual contact with an infected individual, direct contact with monkeypox skin lesions or scabs, or prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected individual resulting in respiratory transmission. The virus can also be acquired by contact with bedding, towels or clothing used by an infected person.
The health unit continues to monitor the situation and may offer further clinics in the future if warranted.
A monkeypox vaccination booking form is available online at bchu.org/monkeypox or by calling the Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937.