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Key Takeaways:
- Vaccination is an important tool to stop the spread of mpox. Get two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine at least 28 days apart if you have certain risk factors, have never received the mpox vaccine, and have never had mpox.
- Get both doses of the mpox vaccine for maximum protection. If you’ve only received one dose, it’s not too late to get the second, even if time has passed.
- Learn more about who should get vaccinated under Vaccination Recommendations.
- If you’ve recovered from mpox, you do not need to be vaccinated, as infection likely provides immune protection.
Vaccine Recommendations
Who should get vaccinated?
The mpox vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of exposure to the virus. Here’s a breakdown of who should consider getting vaccinated:
1. People recently exposed to Mpox
Vaccination is most effective within 4 to 14 days after exposure to mpox, ideally before symptoms develop. Contact your local health department if you:
- Had close contact with someone diagnosed with mpox in the past two weeks.
- Had a sex partner in the past two weeks who was diagnosed with mpox.
2. Travelers to Countries with Clade 1 Mpox Outbreaks
CDC has updated vaccination recommendations for people traveling to countries with clade I outbreaks . If you’re traveling to a country with a clade I mpox outbreak, the CDC recommends getting two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine if you anticipate activities that could increase your risk of exposure, such as:
- Having sex with a new partner.
- Visiting commercial sex venues like sex clubs or bathhouses.
- Engaging in sex in exchange for money, goods, drugs, or other trade.
- Participating in large public events involving sexual activity (e.g., raves, parties, or festivals).
3. People at Higher Risk of Exposure
If you're at increased risk of mpox exposure, you should get two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. This includes:
- Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, or transgender, nonbinary, or gender-diverse individuals, if in the past 6 months you:
- Were diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis).
- Had multiple sex partners.
- Engaged in sexual activity at a commercial sex venue or during a large event where mpox transmission is occurring.
- Anyone with a sexual partner who meets the above criteria.
- Anyone who anticipates engaging in similar activities in the future.
4. People at Risk of Occupational Exposure
Certain jobs may increase your risk of exposure to orthopoxviruses, including mpox. The vaccine is recommended for:
- Laboratory workers handling orthopoxviruses.
- Clinical laboratory personnel performing diagnostic testing for mpox.
- Healthcare workers and response team members designated by public health authorities.
If this applies to you, consult your local health department or employer for vaccination guidance (see ACIP recommendations ).
Important Considerations
Before getting vaccinated, keep the following in mind:
Allergies: Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re allergic to ingredients in the vaccine or to chicken or egg proteins.
Previous mpox diagnosis: If you’ve already had mpox, vaccination isn’t currently recommended, as the infection likely provides immune protection.
Where to Get the Mpox Vaccine
If you’re looking to get vaccinated against mpox, here’s how to find a provider near you and access the vaccine:
For Insured Individuals
The JYNNEOS mpox vaccine is covered by:
- Medicare and Medicaid.
- Private insurance for eligible individuals.
If you’re insured, you can:
- Contact your insurance provider for details about covered vaccination sites near you.
- Contact your health care provider, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), or a pharmacy near you to inquire about JYNNEOS vaccine availability.
For Uninsured Individuals
Whether you're insured or not, vaccines are available to protect you from mpox. Check with your local health department or FQHC to see if the JYNNEOS vaccine is available.