The Irish government has purchased 15,000 vaccines in response to the ongoing monkeypox crisis.
The vaccines were bought through the HSE upon reaching a deal with Danish biotechnology company Bavarian Nordic. The vaccines, which are used to treat smallpox, offer some protection against the emerging monkeypox virus for at risk groups.
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly confirmed that the deal with the manufacturer would see 5,000 of the vaccines issued in Ireland before the end of the year. The remaining 10,000 vaccines are to be delivered here in 2023.