CDC Recommends Vaccination Against Mpox for Certain Populations

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The CDC recommends vaccination against mpox for the following individuals:

• Those who have had known or suspected exposure to someone with mpox
• Those who have had a sex partner in the past 2 weeks who was diagnosed with mpox

Benefits of Vaccination

Getting an mpox vaccine can help prevent infection. The vaccine should be given within 4 days of contact with someone who has mpox or within up to 14 days if antiviral treatment is not available.

Types of Vaccines

Two vaccines may be used to prevent mpox:

• JYNNEOS vaccine is licensed to prevent smallpox and mpox and recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
• ACAM2000 vaccine was initially developed against smallpox and should protect against mpox and all other members of that virus family, said Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination is an important tool in preventing the spread of mpox. The vaccine may still protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Conclusion

The CDC recommends vaccination against mpox for certain populations to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect individuals from severe illness. Individuals who meet the criteria for vaccination are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.