To help stop the spread of the monkeypox virus, you may have seen the NHS is contacting and vaccinating people who are eligible for protection, in line with UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advice.
If you are invited to get the vaccine, it is recommend you take the offer as soon as you are able. If you have questions about the vaccine, including eligibility or why you may have received the text message, please visit the Unity website.
Anyone receiving a text message being invited for a vaccination has been clinically assessed, and identified, as eligible. This text message is unique to the individual and cannot be shared onwards for another person’s use to receive a vaccination.
Please do not attend a clinic if you do not have an appointment. Further appointments will be made available for eligible people in the coming weeks.
If you would like to know more, visit the Unity website for local information.
More information about the vaccination strategy for monkeypox, including eligibility for vaccination, is available on the Government website.
Monkeypox is a viral infection, spread by close contact with someone with the virus. Monkeypox can be passed on from person-to-person through:
- any close physical contact with monkeypox blisters or scabs (including during sexual contact, kissing, cuddling or holding hands)
- touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with monkeypox
- the coughs or sneezes of a person with monkeypox when they’re close to you
