FREDERICTON (GNB) – With greater availability of monkeypox vaccines, Public Health is encouraging the following group to get a vaccine: cisgender, transgender or two-spirit individuals who are 18 years of age and older and who also self-identify as belonging to the gay, bisexual or men-who-have-sex-with-men community and who are or plan to become sexually active with more than one partner.

A second dose at a 28-day interval is recommended for those who are immunocompromised. The criteria may change as the situation evolves.

“We are pleased we can now offer the monkeypox vaccine to an expanded group in New Brunswick,” said Dr. Arifur Rahman, acting deputy chief medical officer of health. “We encourage anyone in the identified group to book an appointment.”

Vaccines for pre-exposure will be available starting Sept. 16 at select clinics offered by the regional health authorities. Individuals can book their appointment outside of their current health zone if they wish. Appointments can also be made without using the registrants’ name.

More information is available online.