The need for mpox vaccines emerges primarily for individuals in high-risk groups rather than the general population, as declared by a leading virologist. Dr. Yong Poovorawan of Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Medicine shared on Facebook this Saturday that vaccination against mpox — recently declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to rising cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and spread to neighboring nations — is unnecessary for those outside high-risk groups.
High-risk groups encompass homosexual men, individuals involved in casual sexual activities, and those who have recently traveled to regions where mpox is prevalent. Dr. Yong emphasized that mpox does not spread as easily as Covid-19. Transmission primarily occurs through physical or sexual contact and by sharing a bed, for instance.
Moreover, he pointed out that during its initial stages, mpox is less severe compared to Covid-19. Interestingly, adults and seniors vaccinated against smallpox (typically born before 1980) have a partial immunity against mpox, according to Dr. Yong.
The existing mpox vaccine, while costly, can become more economical by splitting a single dose among up to five individuals, each receiving an intramuscular injection.
Dr. Opass Putcharoen, serving as the acting deputy director of the Thai Red Cross Aids Research Centre (Anonymous Clinic), highlighted that the research center administered 400 doses of the mpox vaccine between March 1 and August 22. There has been a noticeable increase in people registering for vaccinations. Concurring with Dr. Yong, he noted that mpox vaccines are not essential for everyone. For those within the risk groups, two doses are recommended, with the second dose given 28 days after the first.
Those who received the smallpox vaccine don’t necessarily need the mpox vaccine unless they’ve had close contact with an infected individual. In such scenarios, a single dose is advised to boost immunity. Dr. Opass explained that one dose of the mpox vaccine can be administered via subcutaneous injection at 8,500 baht or an intramuscular injection at 2,200 baht.
Why should we prioritize high-risk groups? Everyone deserves access to vaccines!
High-risk groups are prioritized because they are most likely to spread the virus. It makes sense to target those who are more vulnerable.
But what if it mutates and spreads more easily? Then we’ll be scrambling to vaccinate everyone.
It’s like focusing fire on the areas most affected first. We can always pivot if things get worse.
The cost issue is also a big factor. We don’t have endless resources.
Shouldn’t everyone have an equal right to protection from diseases, regardless of their risk level?
The reality is that not everyone needs it right now. It’s about managing resources effectively.
But it’s not just about need; it’s about equality and fairness.
Public health measures often require difficult prioritization to maximize overall protection.
So, older folks with smallpox vaccines are pretty much safe, right?
Yeah, but they aren’t completely immune. They should still be cautious, especially if they are at risk.
This just shows how underprepared we are! More vaccines should have been available already.
How could we have predicted the need for mpox vaccines specifically? Resource allocation is always a challenge.
Interesting that the vaccine can be split among five people. That could make it more accessible!
Isn’t that risky? What if splitting dilutes its effectiveness?
Dr. Yong mentioned it’s a viable method. If it’s backed by research, we should consider it.
The fact that each dose can be split might be a game-changer for countries with limited resources.
Why aren’t more people talking about the cost differentiation between intramuscular and subcutaneous injections?
Exactly! The intramuscular injection is way cheaper. This should be highlighted.
Vaccines should be universally accessible; why make it so complicated?
This whole situation is confusing. Why don’t they just make one standard method and distribute it equally?
This smacks of elitism. Why should only ‘high-risk’ groups be prioritized?
It’s not elitism. It’s practical. Those at greater risk should get priority.
There’s just too much misinformation. We need clear guidelines.
True, but public health messaging takes time and has to adapt as new data comes in.
Is 8,500 baht really feasible for most people in high-risk areas?
That’s a hefty price tag. Governments should subsidize if they want widespread adoption.
It’s good to know that having the smallpox vaccine offers some protection.
Yeah, but it doesn’t mean we should be complacent.
I can’t imagine anyone wants to get vaccinated multiple times. Once should be enough!
Different diseases require different dosages and schedules. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.
Still, it feels overwhelming. It’s hard to keep up with all the requirements.
The focus on homosexual men seems discriminatory.
It’s based on risk factors, not discrimination. The virus spreads more easily in certain demographics.
Still, the language needs to be sensitive. It can stigmatize these groups.
So, if mpox isn’t as severe as Covid-19, why is there such a panic?
It’s about preventing another public health crisis. Better to nip it in the bud.
Are there any side effects to the vaccine?
Every vaccine has potential side effects. It’s all about weighing the risks.
Why can’t we use mRNA technology to create a faster, cheaper mpox vaccine?
Research and development for new vaccines take time and funding. It’s not an overnight process.