Monkeypox Vaccine

If you have been exposed to monkeypox, getting vaccinated may keep you from getting sick. Vaccination is most effective within four days of exposure but can help up to 14 days later.                                                   

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) recommends* the mpox vaccine (JYNNEOS) for any person who:​​

• Is homosexual, bisexual, or other man who has sex with men or
• Is transgender, nonbinary, or gender-diverse or
• Has HIV, or is taking/eligible for HIV PrEP or doxy PEP​ or
• Was exposed to someone with mpox in the last 14 days or
• Is planning to travel to sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, or a country with a clade I mpox outbreak and anticipates sexual or intimate contact while traveling or
• Anticipates attending a commercial sex event or venue (like a sex club or bathhouse) or
• Has a sex partner with any of the above risks or
• Requests mpox vaccination, even if they have not disclosed any risks listed above 

In addition, the mpox vaccine is recommended for anyone at occupational risk for exposure to mpox​ (e.g., certain laboratory workers). 

*These recommendations are intended to simplify risk assessment and increase vaccination coverage among groups at increased risk of exposure given current outbreak data. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are unsure if you may be at risk for mpox.