Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the orthopoxvirus family. This infection can lead to a rash, which might be accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. While symptoms often resolve on their own, the illness can sometimes be more severe, and vaccines are available to prevent infection and lessen symptom severity.
Pre-Exposure Vaccination Recommendations
Pre-exposure vaccination against mpox is advised for specific groups at higher risk of encountering the virus. This strategy, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), aims to build immunity proactively. The JYNNEOS vaccine is a two-dose series administered 28 days apart. It has shown effectiveness in preventing mpox, with two doses offering stronger protection than a single dose.
Occupational exposure includes laboratory personnel working with orthopoxviruses or diagnostic testing, and certain public health response teams. Healthcare personnel who care for mpox patients or administer the ACAM2000 vaccine are also included in these recommendations. Additionally, people whose sexual activity puts them at higher risk for mpox are advised to consider pre-exposure vaccination. This includes gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, or those who have sex with individuals in this group, who have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the past six months, or who anticipate similar scenarios.
Vaccination Following Exposure
Vaccination can also be administered after exposure to the monkeypox virus, a strategy known as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This approach aims to prevent the onset of illness or reduce its severity. For the best chance of preventing the disease, the vaccine should be given as soon as possible, ideally within four days of exposure.
Even if vaccination occurs between four and fourteen days after exposure, it may still help to lessen the symptoms of the disease, though it might not prevent the illness entirely. An “exposure” can involve known or suspected close contact with someone diagnosed with mpox, such as prolonged skin-to-skin contact, or sharing items like bedding or clothing that have been used by an infected person. Individuals who have had a sex partner diagnosed with mpox in the past two weeks are also considered exposed and should seek vaccination.
Guidance for the General Public
Currently, routine immunization against mpox is not recommended for the general public. This is because the risk of exposure remains low for most individuals. The focus of vaccination efforts is on those at higher risk of exposure, either due to their occupation or specific activities, or those who have already been exposed.
If you do not fall into the categories for pre-exposure or post-exposure vaccination, there is no current recommendation for you to seek the mpox vaccine. Continuing to practice general hygiene measures and being aware of symptoms are sufficient for most people. The current public health guidance aims to protect those most vulnerable.