Monkeypox (MPox) Vaccine Offered at Skippack Pharmacy

monkeypox vaccine pic

What is Monkeypox (MPox)?

Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Symptoms of monkeypox can be similar but more mild than smallpox, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. The time from exposure to when symptoms appear ranges from about 7 to 12 days and the illness typically lasts about 2-4 weeks.

What are the Symptoms of Monkeypox?

Common symptoms include: fever, headache, muscle aches, back aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, increased fatigue/exhaustion, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough. More commonly is the presence of a rash located on or near the genitals, hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. The rash may appear as pimples or blisters that can be painful or itchy. The rash may go through several stages and take 2-4 weeks to heal. Someone who has monkeypox may present with one or more of the above symptoms or none at all but the best way to protect yourself is by getting the monkeypox vaccine.

How Does Monkeypox Spread?

Monkeypox is spread through very close personal contact with an individual who has monkeypox. It occurs through skin-to-skin contact with the monkeypox rash, scabs or bodily fluids. Monkeypox is NOT a sexually transmitted disease.

How can I Protect Myself from Getting Monkeypox?

We now offer the vaccine at our pharmacy which is useful in preventing the spread of the disease. In addition, the following steps can be taken to limit the spread and protect yourself:
  • Avoid close contact with people that have a rash that look like pimples or blisters
  • Avoid touching the rash or scabs of an infected individual
  • Do not kiss, hug or engage in sexual contact with an infected individual
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer 
  • Avoid touching your face
  • If you develop symptoms or test positive, isolate yourself to avoid transmitting to others
PREVENTION: We offer the JYNNEOS vaccine for Monkeypox (MPox)

MONKEYPOX (MPOX) VACCINE INTEREST FORM

What is the Monkeypox Vaccine?

The JYNNEOS vaccine is approved for prevention of smallpox and monkeypox and is the vaccine primarily being used for the monkeypox outbreak. The vaccine is a part of a two-dose series, with both doses being given 28 days apart. It is recommended to receive the second dose within 35 days of the first dose. The vaccine is given subcutaneously. Side effects of the vaccine can include redness and itching at the spot where the vaccine is given as well as headache, tiredness, nausea, chills, and muscle aches.
More information on the vaccine click the links below:
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/smallpox-monkeypox.pdf
https://www.fda.gov/media/160773/download 

Who is eligible for the Monkeypox Vaccine?

The vaccine is currently being given to individuals at risk of acquiring monkeypox or have had exposure with an infected individual. People who may be eligible for vaccination include:
  • People who have been identified by public health officials as a contact of someone with monkeypox
  • People who may have been exposed to monkeypox, such as:
    • People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks has been diagnosed with monkeypox
    • People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known monkeypox cases 

Who should NOT get the Monkeypox Vaccine?

The vaccine is not recommended for anyone who has a history of an allergic reaction to the antibiotics gentamicin or ciprofloxacin, or chicken or egg protein. It is not recommended to get the monkeypox vaccine at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, consider waiting up to four weeks to get the COVID-19 vaccine.