The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts is expanding eligibility for the monkeypox vaccine. Anyone living with HIV or AIDS, and anyone diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the last three months are now eligible to apply for the vaccine, official say.

The expansion is in response to the Virginia Department of Health updating its vaccine eligibility Monday to include more groups of people. RHHD is also simplifying its vaccine interest form and offering vaccine appointments to the remaining eligible individuals on its list.

“We encourage individuals in our communities to review the new eligibility and consider filling out a vaccine interest form next week if you’re newly eligible,” saic Elaine Perry, director of RHHD. “Thankfully, we’re seeing the numbers of new cases come down, but getting individuals who are likely to be exposed vaccinated can help ensure our communities are protected.”

Anyone interested in a monkeypox vaccine may visit rrhd.gov/monkeypoxvax or call (804) 205-3501 to review eligibility requirements and to complete a vaccine interest form.