Manitoba has expanded eligibility for the monkeypox vaccine for men who are at higher risk of contracting the disease.

So far there have been no confirmed cases of monkeypox in the province.

Although anyone can become infected with monkeypox at this point in time infections have been primarily reported in people who identify as being gay, bisexual and or have sex with other men.

These individuals are now eligible to receive a preventative vaccination if they also meet at least one of the following criteria:

• have received a diagnosis of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and or syphilis in the past two months;
• have had two or more sexual partners in the last 21 days;
• have attended locations for sexual contact (e.g. bath houses or sex clubs) or are planning to;
• have had anonymous sex in the past 21 days or are planning to; or
• engage in sex work or plan to, either as a worker or a client.

Immunizations can be booked online at https://patient.petal-health.com/login?groupId=6032 or by calling Health Links at (204) 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257. People outside of Winnipeg should contact their local public health office to schedule an appointment www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/offices.html

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