Preventative vaccines are an essential part of sexual healthcare. In Malta, vaccines are generally provided through the public health system, though access criteria vary by disease.
🦠 Mpox (Monkeypox)
The Mpox vaccine is free of charge, but it is not available to the general public or for preventive travel purposes. It cannot be purchased privately.
- Eligibility: Malta currently uses the vaccine strictly for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). It is only administered to individuals identified by the Public Health contact tracing team as high-risk contacts of a confirmed Mpox case.
- Access: If you are identified as a high-risk contact, the public health team will contact you directly to book your vaccination appointment.
- Concerns: If you believe you have been exposed to Mpox or are showing symptoms, contact your GP, the GU Clinic at Mater Dei, or the public health helpline on 111.
💉 Hepatitis A and B
Hepatitis A and B are viral infections that can be transmitted sexually.
- Access: You can discuss vaccination during a consultation at the GU Clinic or with your GP at a local health centre.
- Cost: If recommended by a public health specialist (e.g., at the GU Clinic) based on your risk profile, these vaccines are typically provided free of charge through the public health system.
🧬 HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV is a common virus that can cause genital warts and certain cancers (including anal and throat cancer).
- National Programme: Malta has a national HPV vaccination programme primarily aimed at adolescents (both boys and girls).
- Adult Access: If you were not vaccinated as a teenager, you should ask the specialists at the GU Clinic about your eligibility. If you fall outside the free eligibility criteria, you may need to purchase the vaccine privately via a prescription from your GP or the GU Clinic and have it administered at a clinic or pharmacy.
(For a detailed breakdown of how these vaccines work and why they matter for gay and bisexual men, see the general Vaccines guide.)
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