Mpox vaccination

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The JYNNEOS vaccine to protect against mpox is free in NSW for eligible groups of people. Two doses are required. A Medicare card is not needed.

To be vaccinated against mpox, call a mpox vaccination clinic to make an appointment.

For free help in your language, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50.

What vaccine can protect people against mpox?

The main vaccine to protect against mpox is called JYNNEOS. It is recommended for at risk people aged 16 years and over, including people who are immunocompromised and people who have HIV.

It is the preferred vaccine for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can be given at the same time as most other vaccines.

Two doses of the vaccine are required for maximum protection, given at least 28 days apart. The vaccine is most effective two weeks after the second dose and gives an 80% protection against mpox. There is still a risk of infection with the virus that causes mpox, but if you are vaccinated, it may mean you only experience mild symptoms.

For more information read the Australian Department of Health's Information on JYNNEOS vaccine.

Information on what to expect after getting your JYNNEOS vaccine and common side effects is available in the post-vaccination fact sheet.

​Who should be vaccinated?

The following people are eligible to be vaccinated against mpox:

  • All sexually active gay and bisexual or other men who have sex with men.
  • All sexually active transgender and gender diverse people, if at risk of mpox exposure.
  • Sex workers.
  • People attending sex on premises venues (SOPVs).
  • People living with HIV, if  at risk of mpox exposure.
  • Sexual partners of the people above.​
  • Laboratory personnel working with orthopoxviruses.
  • Healthcare workers at risk of exposure to patients with mpox in Australia, including staff in sexual health clinics and other workers as appropriate. The risk of transmission should be minimised by using infection control measures in the first instance.
  • Healthcare workers and other humanitarian workers at risk of occupational mpox exposure working internationally in countries with mpox outbreaks.
  • Anyone (regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity) with travel planned to a country with ongoing transmission of clade I mpox and planning to undertake sexual activities within the country which may put them at risk of mpox exposure.
  • People who have been in contact with mpox who have not yet recieved 2 doses of JYNNEOS vaccine (Post exposure preventative vaccinatio​n (PEPV)).

Do I need a booster dose?

There is no current recommendation for booster doses even if you are exposed to mpox. NSW Health follows the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) guidance on mpox vaccination. ATAGI will continue to review available evidence on whether booster doses should be considered in the future.

Where can people get vaccinated?

The JYNNEOS vaccine is available at selected clinics in NSW. People must call to make an appointment.

How else can people protect themselves from mpox?

Vaccination is only one way to prevent mpox infection. There is still a risk of infection after getting the vaccine, so it’s important to take steps to reduce the chance of catching or spreading mpox.

For advice on how to stay safe from mpox, visit our Mpox information hub or ACON.

Translated information

Translated mpox fact sheets and resources are available in multiple languages.

Current as at: Friday 14 March 2025
Contact page owner: Specialist Programs