Twelve new mpox vaccination sites have opened across England, making it easier for eligible people to get protected.
From the beginning of February 2025, every UK region will be able to offer the vaccine for those at increased risk of getting the infection – after previously only being available to those eligible in London, Manchester and Brighton.
While the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed the risk from mpox remains low, having more vaccination sites across the country will improve access to the jabs.
Clade 2 mpox has been present in the UK since 2022 – case numbers have decreased since the height of the outbreak in 2022 and currently remain low. Separately, there has been a small number of cases of Clade 1b mpox in this country since October 2024.
Mpox can be passed on from person to person through any close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs. Once infected with mpox, it usually takes between five and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear.
Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccination and Screening, said: “The NHS is fully prepared to respond to mpox and the latest cases of Clade 1b with local services pulling out all the stops to vaccinate those eligible since it first became present in England, and tens of thousands in priority groups already coming forward and getting protected. While the risk to the public remains low, it is important that eligible people across England are able to access mpox vaccines easily, which is why we are now offering the jabs at even more sites across the country in line with supply.”
Vaccination appointments will be available at the sites listed on the NHS online site finder, with the number expected to increase. The new locations are: Birmingham, Nottingham, Sheffield, Sunderland, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, Blackpool, Southampton, Bristol, Exeter and Hatfield (Herts). This is in addition to 19 sites already vaccinating in :London, Greater Manchester and Brighton.