Monkeypox Vaccinations Now Available

Despite a low number of cases of mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in the Bay Area over the last few months, the Alameda County Public Health Department (ACPHD) issued a statement last Wednesday letting people know that vaccinations are now available and recommended.

Mpox is a viral disease that can be spread between people or between people and certain animals like monkeys or squirrels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including direct contact with an mpox rash or scabs from a person with mpox, as well as contact with their saliva, snot, mucus, or genitalia.

In the current mpox outbreak, the virus is spreading primarily through sexual contact, the ACPHD said. Persons living with HIV, persons who are eligible for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), men who have sex with men, trans people, and nonbinary people are strongly encouraged to get fully vaccinated.

However, infections have occurred through other exposures, including non-sexual contact. County health officials are encouraging all those who need protection from mpox to get vaccinated now, ahead of large-crowd summer celebrations like concerts or festivals.  

The vaccine is administered as a two-dose series, given at least 28 days apart. People are considered “fully vaccinated” 14 days after getting the two-dose series.  

“Mpox should’'t be allowed to ruin summer fun,” said Dr. George Ayala, ACPHD Deputy Director. “The 2-dose JYNNEOS vaccine, together with prevention education, are our strongest lines of defense against mpox infection, serious illness, and hospitalization. The vaccine is safe and effective. We must get the word out now.”

There are several upcoming events where you can get vaccinated at no cost. For information, visit the ACPHD website (monkeypox.wpengine.com/vaccine/)