Mpox
About Mpox
Mpox (monkeypox) is a disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. It typically results in a mild illness associated with a rash. It is spread mostly through prolonged physical or intimate (skin-to-skin) contact with someone who has mpox. Most people recover within a few weeks.
Since May 2022, there has been an ongoing multi-country outbreak of mpox involving more than 100 countries. mpox is currently spreading within local communities in regions where mpox is not usually seen. The current outbreak is mostly impacting men who have sex with men.
Vaccination
In Victoria, the mpox vaccine (JYNNEOS® vaccine) is available free-of-charge for people who meet any of the updated eligibility criteria. Please check eligibility criteria here.
Mpox vaccinations bookings are open for eligible people in at the Barwon Health Vaccination Centre in Belmont (see map here), as well as at pop-up clinics at other locations across the Barwon South West.
MPOX VACCINATIONS
Mpox vaccination is currently by appointment only. Strictly no walk-ins
Geelong:
- Barwon Health Vaccination Centre - Reynolds Road, Belmont: To make an Mpox vaccination booking at the Barwon Health Vaccination Centre in Belmont call 03 4215 4444.
- Kardinia Health - Colac Road, Belmont:To make an Mpox vaccination booking at Kardinia Health call 03 5202 9333.
Hamilton, Portland and Warrnamobool:
- Bookings available to request via email here: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Regional clinic locations subject to change - Location details and directions will be provided in your booking confirmation.
If you have questions about accessing the MPX vaccine in the Barwon South West region, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Our team can help arrange a vaccination at your local health service.
More information on Mpox is available from the Victorian Department of Health and the Better Health Channel.
Eligibility criteria
Post-exposure preventive vaccination (PEPV) for high-risk close contacts of mpox cases, preferably within 4 days.
Primary preventive vaccination (PPV) has been expanded to include:
All sexually active gay and bisexual men (cis and trans).
Sexual partners of the above.
Sex workers.
Immunisation providers who are administering the ACAM2000™ smallpox vaccine.
Laboratory workers who analyse specimens from mpox cases.
Vaccination may also be considered for healthcare workers at higher risk of exposure to patients with mpox, including primary care, sexual health clinics, hospital staff and others, based on local risk assessments. The risk of transmission should be also minimised by using infection control measures.
Two doses are required for optimal protection and can be given 28 days apart. The mpox vaccine takes approximately 14 days before it is effective.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 24 May 2023