The Ministry of Health is surveying the public about interest in receiving the Mpox vaccine.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said the ministry was considering offering the vaccination to those at a higher risk of exposure to Mpox, the virus formerly known as monkeypox.

“To gauge community interest, we have created an optional survey interest form. Starting today and for the next two weeks, Bermuda residents can complete the interest form for the Mpox vaccine, JYNNEOS, by visiting https://forms.gov.bm/MPoxSurvey.”

A ministry spokeswoman said that completing the form did not guarantee vaccination, but if the ministry does decide to offer the vaccination only a limited supply will be offered to adults with risk factors.

“Mpox is a disease caused by a virus that can result in a rash or lesions and is spread through close person-to-person contact,” the spokeswoman said.

“Anyone can get and spread Mpox. Close contact includes touching skin lesions, bodily fluids or clothing/linens that have been in contact with an infected person. Spread can also occur during prolonged, face-to-face contact.

“In addition to vaccination, there are other ways to stay safe, for example, avoiding skin-to-skin contact with another person’s rash or lesions, and frequently washing your hands with soap and water.”

For more information about the Mpox vaccine, visit www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/vaccines/index.html.