OREANDA-NEWS The existing smallpox vaccines in Russia are just as effective against monkeypox, Elena Malinnikova, head of the Department of Virology at the Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education, told Narodny Novosti. There is no need to create any new vaccines, she believes.

“To date, three vaccines against smallpox have been registered in Russia, which are just as effective against monkeypox, and these vaccines have proven themselves well and can be used. There is no need to invent new vaccines, as we have them and there is no reason to worry, and those vaccines that exist are also effective against monkeypox," Malinnikova said.

As of May 24, 131 human monkeypox cases have been confirmed in 17 countries. According to the World Health Organization, the largest number of infections was registered in Spain - 40, Portugal - 37 and the UK - 20. Another 106 cases are under investigation, of which 51 are in Spain.

Regarding mass vaccination, the WHO said that there was no need for it. According to the organization's Richard Peabody, safer sexual behavior and handwashing will help to cope with the outbreak.