Page updated: 8 August 2023
Mpox Vaccinations: Information for LGBTQ+ communities in NSW
This page contains information about the mpox vaccine and a link to NSW Health to book for your vaccination.
It is important however that our community stays informed about how mpox is transmitted and what we can do to prevent mpox. ACON is providing frequently updating information to help our communities make informed decisions. You can access that information here.
LATEST UPDATE
The JYNNEOS vaccine to protect against mpox is free in NSW for eligible groups of people. You can be vaccinated without a Medicare card.
All sexually active gay, bisexual men and men who have sex with men (cis and trans), as well as anyone who has sex with these men, including women (cis and trans), and non-binary people, and sex workers are eligible to get the vaccine.
Find out where you can get the vaccine via NSW Health here
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about mpox vaccines
The JYNNEOS vaccine is the vaccine being offered to community members during the mpox vaccination program. It is a two-dose vaccine and is safe to use in people who are immunocompromised.
For optimal protection in people at high risk of mpox, two doses of the vaccine are required, at a minimum of 28 days apart. Maximum protection is reached around two weeks after the second dose and likely persists for years.
There are currently no known increased risks for people living with HIV. People who are eligible to receive the JYNNEOS vaccine are urged to get vaccinated, as supply allows.
Who is eligible for the JYNNEOS vaccine?
People eligible to receive the vaccine include all sexually active gay, bisexual men and men who have sex with men (cis and trans), as well as anyone who has sex with these men, including women (cis and trans), and non-binary people, and sex workers.
If this criteria applies to you, you can book your vaccine at one of the clinics listed on the NSW Health website.
Do I need a Medicare card to receive the vaccine?
No. While some vaccination sites may ask you to bring a Medicare card along to your appointment, mpox vaccines are available at no charge to everyone regardless of their Medicare status.
I am planning to travel overseas. Should I get the JYNNEOS vaccine?
People who are deemed at high risk of mpox infection – such as gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men that have a history of multiple sexual partners – who are planning to travel to a country with a significant mpox outbreak should get vaccinated.
But be sure you plan early and to take into account the limited supply. You will need at least four weeks between your two doses, and another two weeks after your second dose to get full protection from the vaccines.
It is important to be self-aware of your health at all times, including after being vaccinated.
If you develop any symptoms, particularly an unusual rash, lesions or sores, seek medical advice immediately. Call the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 or call your GP or local sexual health clinic via phone or telehealth.
I think I may have been exposed to/have symptoms of MPOX. Am I eligible for the JYNNEOS vaccine?
Anyone categorised by public health authorities as a high risk mpox contact should get the vaccine. Speak to your GP or healthcare professional about vaccine access if you are a close contact.
If you have symptoms of mpox it is important to speak to a healthcare provider first before accessing a vaccine appointment. Contact your regular healthcare provider and let them know before attending that you might be experiencing symptoms.
Monitor for symptoms and if you develop any symptoms, particularly an unusual rash, lesions or sores, seek medical advice immediately. Call the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 or call your GP or local sexual health clinic via phone or telehealth.
I’ve had my first dose of the mpox vaccine. When do I get my second dose?
The JYNNEOS vaccine is given as a two-dose vaccine with each dose given at least 28 days apart.
If you received your first dose at a NSW Health vaccination site, you do not need to register again online. You will be contacted.
Continue to take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to mpox, even if you have already received one dose. Once you have been vaccinated, you should continue to protect yourself by avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact, including sex or other intimate contact, as well as items such as bedding or towels with a person who has mpox.
For more information: