A new Covid-19 variant, described as more transmissible but not more severe, is circulating in the region this autumn, prompting Monaco to relaunch its vaccination campaign…
The government’s initiative, led by the Department of Social Affairs and Health, began in early October and targets people aged 65 and over, those at risk of severe illness, pregnant women, and residents of care facilities. Vaccines adapted to current strains are now available in pharmacies across the Principality.
As reported by Monaco Matin, the new variant, nicknamed “Frankenstein”, was first identified earlier this year and has since become predominant in several European countries. According to Dr Thomas Althaus, Public Health physician at the Directorate of Health Action, the strain’s rapid spread is due to genetic recombinations that make it more infectious. However, it has not shown increased severity and remains classified by health authorities as a “variant under surveillance.”
Health officials continue to emphasise vaccination as the best protection against serious illness, particularly for the most vulnerable. Pharmacies such as the one in Fontvieille are administering up to 20 Covid vaccinations daily, alongside tests that return results within 15 minutes. Demand for flu vaccination is also strong, with uptake up by around 50 percent compared to last year. Medical professionals urge continued vigilance, stressing that basic protective measures, masks, hand hygiene, and distancing, remain vital as Monaco heads into winter.
Photo by Braňo
