How long does the monkeypox vaccine last?

The monkeypox outbreak or mpox outbreak in 2022-2023 mainly affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, has highlighted the urgent need for an effective vaccine. Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing and controlling the spread of the disease, protecting both individual and community health. Let’s look at the Mpox vaccine and how long it can last.

Understanding Monkeypox

Monkeypox, or mpox, is a rare viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, most commonly found in parts of West, Central and East Africa. While mpox shares similarities with the smallpox virus, its symptoms are generally milder, and it is rarely fatal. The virus is spread through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or in some cases, exposure to infected animals.

The Mpox Vaccine

The mpox vaccine, also known by its brand name JYNNEOS is a two-dose vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of smallpox and mpox in adults aged 18 and older who are at high risk of exposure. This vaccine is made using a weakened, live vaccinia virus and cannot cause the diseases it is designed to prevent.

Who should get the Mpox Vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the mpox vaccine for higher-risk individuals who:

• Are gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, or are transgender, gender non-binary, or gender-diverse, and have had multiple sexual partners or anonymous sexual contact in the past 6 months
• Have had sexual or intimate contact with someone who may have mpox
• Healthcare workers that handle orthopoxviruses, such as the mpox virus

Vaccine dosage and timing

The mpox vaccine is given as a series of two doses, with the second dose given at least 28 days after the first. It is essential to complete the full two-dose regimen to achieve the best protection against mpox. Individuals who have previously received the smallpox vaccine may only require a single dose of the mpox vaccine.

Vaccine efficacy

Clinical trials have shown that the mpox vaccine effectively protects against mpox infection. Two doses of the vaccine provide the highest level of protection, with maximum immunity achieved two weeks after the second dose. However, it’s important to note that vaccination does not eliminate the need for continued risk reduction measures, such as avoiding close person-to-person and skin-to-skin contact with individuals who may have mpox.

How long does the monkeypox vaccine last?

The duration of protection provided by the monkeypox vaccine is an important consideration for public health authorities and individuals seeking vaccination. While the vaccine has shown efficacy in clinical trials, but its long-term protection is still under research.

Initial vaccine effectiveness

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the JYNNEOS vaccine is around 85% effective in preventing monkeypox infection when both doses have been taken.

Reduced immunity over time

However, as with many vaccines, the protective effects of JYNNEOS may wane over time. The duration of protection offered by the vaccine is influenced by several factors, including the individual’s immune system, exposure to the virus, and the emergence of new viral variants.

Recent studies have suggested that the JYNNEOS vaccine’s effectiveness may reduce gradually, with some estimates of protection reduction by 10-20% per year.

Booster doses

Some health authorities have recommended booster doses of the vaccine for individuals at high risk. The CDC currently advises that individuals who received their initial two-dose JYNNEOS series should receive a booster dose every 2 years if they remain at high risk of exposure.

For individuals who have previously received the older ACAM2000 smallpox vaccine, a single dose of JYNNEOS may be enough ongoing protection.

It is important to note that the specific recommendations for booster doses may vary depending on individual risk factors and you should consult with a healthcare professional for vaccine information and advice.

Factors affecting how long the vaccine will last

Several factors can influence how long the vaccine will last:

• Individual immune response e.g. age and underlying health conditions
• The number of times an individual has been exposed to the virus
• New viral mutations
• The number of vaccine doses taken e.g. individuals who have only taken the first dose will have less protection
• Individual risk factors e.g. individuals with weakened immune systems, may require more frequent booster doses

Side effects of the vaccine

The mpox vaccine is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being pain, redness, and itching at the injection site. Some individuals may also experience fatigue, headache, and muscle pain. Severe allergic reactions, while rare, are possible and should be reported to healthcare providers immediately.

Vaccination considerations for specific groups of people

Certain individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with a history of severe allergic reactions, may require additional considerations or precautions when receiving the mpox vaccine. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination in these cases.

Conclusion

The mpox vaccine plays a critical role in the prevention and management of this emerging viral disease. By understanding the key facts about the vaccine, its eligibility criteria, and the importance of completing the full vaccination regimen, individuals can make informed decisions and contribute to the collective effort to control the spread of mpox. As the landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to rely on authoritative sources and healthcare professionals for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Sources

• Vaccines – Mpox | Poxvirus |-CDC
• Smallpox/Monkeypox Vaccine Information Statement – CDC
• Mpox – WHO
• Mpox (Formerly Monkeypox) – HHS.gov