Stay informed and take necessary precautions to combat the spread of MPOX and protect our community.
11 New Cases of MPOX in Stockholm
In recent news, it has been reported that MPOX, a contagious disease, has resurfaced in Stockholm, Sweden. As of now, there have been 11 confirmed cases, with most of them being diagnosed at Venhälsan within the group of men who have sex with men. What is particularly concerning is that some of those infected have been vaccinated against the disease.
The Availability of an Effective Vaccine
According to qx.se, there is a vaccine available that is effective against all variants of MPOX. This vaccine is provided free of charge to individuals who belong to risk groups, such as men who have sex with men, transgender people, and those who engage in sex for compensation. Finn Filén, a senior physician at Venhälsan, confirms that the vaccine is readily accessible for these groups.
For individuals who were vaccinated against smallpox as children (please note that the smallpox vaccine ceased to be administered in Sweden in 1976), a single dose of the MPOX vaccine is sufficient. However, for those who did not receive the smallpox vaccine during childhood, two doses of the MPOX vaccine are administered at one-month intervals.
While the vaccine does offer protection against MPOX infection, it is essential to understand that the protection is not 100% foolproof. Therefore, taking additional precautions is necessary to prevent the spread of the disease.
Prevention and Protection Measures
One effective measure to protect oneself from MPOX is the consistent use of condoms during anal sex. This practice significantly reduces the risk of contracting MPOX in the rectum, which can be extremely painful.
If you experience symptoms such as fever and rash, including blisters or sores anywhere on your body, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Contact your nearest STI clinic to get tested for MPOX and receive the necessary assistance.
qx.se highlights the importance of understanding the prerequisites for the spread of MPOX. The disease requires either sexual or close contact with more than one person within a three-week period, which aligns with the incubation period of the disease. However, it is not always easy to determine if a new partner is potentially contagious.
To minimise the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus, it is recommended to limit your sexual partners to a maximum of one per three-week period. This precautionary measure can significantly contribute to reducing the transmission of MPOX.
Remember, your health and the health of others are of utmost importance. Stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical assistance when needed. Together, we can combat the spread of MPOX and protect our community.
