Mpox

Previous smallpox vaccination appears to provide good protection against Mpox (monkeypox) (> 85% effective) but only older people would have received this. The smallpox vaccine is was ceased in 1980 and is no longer available to the public.

There are currently two Mpox specific vaccines available.

In 2019 an attenuated (weaker) strain of the virus was approved for vaccination. This is currently available for those who are deemed to be at higher risk of exposure.

JYNNEOS (3^rd generation) – attenuated vaccine is recommend for those 18 years and above.

Vaccination consists of a 2-dose schedule with a minimum interval of 28 days.  The full benefits of the vaccine are not seen until 2 weeks after the 2^nd dose, though some protection is provided by the initial dose.  Two doses of the vaccine are believed to provide around 80% protection.

ACAM2000 (2^nd generation) – attenuated vaccine (live)

This vaccine cannot be given to:

• severely immunocompromised people
• people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• people with cardiac disease or cardiac risk factors
• people with active eczema
• infants below 12 months of age.

For details on availability and access in regard to Mpox vaccines - See Department of Health and Aged Care