Monkeypox, a viral illness similar to smallpox, has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). For people living with HIV, understanding the risks and benefits of monkeypox vaccination is crucial. As an HIV-positive gay activist from Pakistan, Ali Raza Khan wants to share personal experience and insights on the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.
Ali Raza Khan, an HIV-positive individual, has faced numerous challenges throughout his journey. His experience with HIV treatment and vaccination has reinforced his belief in the importance of science and medical advice. He shares “ Since April 2019 and I have gone through a lot of medicine changes to get HIV undetectable viral load. I have seen many other HIV positive people listening to rumors delaying their treatments and vaccinations and eventually believing the science and doctors.”
He was one of the first people in his community health care workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when it was only allowed for health care providers, despite widespread misinformation and concerns in the community.
“Similar rumors happened in the covid-19 when the covid-19 vaccine came HIV positive people were curious with a lot of questions around having covid-19 vaccine as HIV positive individuals including Should we take the covid-19 vaccine or not? Is it safe for us or not? I was one of the first that took the covid-19 vaccine as a health worker I was working in community HIV prevention programs. I believe in science and doctors that have saved my life over these years from different infections I suffered and I wanted other HIV positive people to trust on scientists and protect themselves from monkeypox and other infections by vaccinating or adhering to their doctors prescribed treatments.”
Ali Raza Khan’s decision to get vaccinated against monkeypox was driven by his understanding of the risks and benefits. He emphasizes the importance of trusting medical professionals and seeking accurate information from reliable sources. His personal experience demonstrates that vaccination can be a powerful tool in preventing serious illnesses, even for those living with HIV.
Transmission according to WHO:
Person-to-person transmission of mpox can occur through direct contact with infectious skin or other lesions such as in the mouth or on genitals; this includes contact which is
- face-to-face (talking or breathing)
- skin-to-skin (touching or vaginal/anal sex)
- mouth-to-mouth (kissing)
- mouth-to-skin contact (oral sex or kissing the skin)
- respiratory droplets or short-range aerosols from prolonged close contact
The virus then enters the body through broken skin, mucosal surfaces (e g oral, pharyngeal, ocular, genital, anorectal), or via the respiratory tract. Mpox can spread to other members of the household and to sex partners. People with multiple sexual partners are at higher risk.
Monkeypox Diagnosis according to WHO:
Identifying mpox can be difficult as other infections and conditions can look similar. It is important to distinguish mpox from chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, herpes, syphilis, other sexually transmissible infections, and medication-associated allergies. Someone with mpox may also have another sexually transmissible infection such as herpes. For these reasons, testing is key for people to get treatment as early as possible and prevent further spread.
Monkeypox Vaccination for People Living with HIV
People living with HIV are generally at higher risk for monkeypox infection, especially if they have a weakened immune system. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and complications. Here’s what people living with HIV should know that by having a monkeypox vaccination you are
- Reducing risk of severe illness and hospitalization for yourself
- Protection against potential complications
- Individual contribution to public health efforts to control the spread of monkeypox in community
You might only have mild side effects, such as pain at the injection site, fever, fatigue, and headache as serious side effects are rare in monkey pox vaccination.
If you are eligible or not it can vary by country or region. Consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance.
“ Go for the vaccination if you have some questions I would like to clear in this post. Monkeypox is declared as a global Health concern by WHO. I already have taken my first dose of monkeypox vaccine last time when I was wasting in Canada as Canada has monkeypox free vaccine for visitors as well. On the other hand in my country in Pakistan the vaccine is still not available. If it is also not available in your country you can follow preventive guidelines from WHO on monkeypox. I did not have anything wrong or any side effects after taking the monkey pox vaccine. I would also suggest other HIV positive people and people from key populations including gay community To go and get themselves vaccinated with monkeypox if they have it available in their country. ”
Preventive Measures
Even if you have been vaccinated, it’s essential to follow preventive measures to reduce your risk of monkeypox infection:
- Practice safe sex: Use condoms and limit the number of sexual partners.
- Avoid contact with infected individuals: Be aware of symptoms and avoid direct contact with people who have monkeypox.
- Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water or hand sanitizer.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated.
“It is important for us as vulnerable population of people from queer and sex work community to have basic information and guidelines around monkey pox vaccination especially for people living with HIV and also to get accurate guidance and information around Mpox from verified sources including health ministries websites and Worlf Health Organisation resources. “
Monkeypox vaccination is a crucial tool in protecting people living with HIV from serious illness. By sharing his personal experience, I encourage others to trust medical professionals and seek accurate information. By taking preventive measures and getting vaccinated, individuals can play a vital role in controlling the spread of monkeypox.
For accurate and up-to-date information on monkeypox, visit the websites of your local health department, the World Health Organization (WHO), and reputable health organizations. These resources can provide guidance on vaccination, prevention, and treatment.
Check the US U.S. Department of Health & Human Services website checklist if you should get vaccinated or not as a person living with HIV: https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/staying-in-hiv-care/other-related-health-issues/monkeypox
World Health Organisation guidelines around symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention here: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox
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