Monkeypox Vaccine Eligibility
Eligibility for monkeypox vaccination may change based on vaccine supply and as the outbreak continues to evolve.
If you are eligible, you should especially consider getting vaccinated if:
- Your partner(s) is showing symptoms of monkeypox, such as a rash or sores
- You met recent partners through online apps or social media platforms, or at clubs, raves, sex parties, or other large gatherings
- You have a condition that may increase your risk for severe disease if infected with the monkeypox virus, such as HIV or another condition that weakens your immune system, or if you have a history of atopic dermatitis or eczema
It is important to note that the risk of monkeypox is not limited to men who have sex with men, though some cases have been identified in communities of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. Anyone who has close contact with someone who is infectious is at risk. However, given that the virus is being identified in these communities, learning about monkeypox will help ensure that as few people as possible are affected and that the outbreak can be stopped.
Vaccination is indicated based on eligiblity and risk, which can be found on the CDC’s website here. Those at risk who are eligible for the vaccine include:
- Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men
- Transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary individuals
- Individuals aged 18 or older
- Individuals who have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the last 14 days
If you had monkeypox, then you likely have some protection against another infection and are currently not eligible to be vaccinated.
People who have been informed by the Health Department that they are a close contact of someone with monkeypox should also get vaccinated.
