Monkeypox Vaccination

mpx vaccine

The CDC does not recommend widespread vaccination against monkeypox (MPX) at this time. However, there are limited quantities of vaccine available for individuals who have been exposed or diagnosed with MPX. Vaccines in most places are prioritized for those who have already been diagnosed, but now are being offered to those who have been exposed to reduce the severity of symptoms. Vaccination may be recommended for some people who:

  • Are close personal contacts of people with MPX;
  • May have been exposed to the virus; or
  • May have increased risk of being exposed to the virus

In Connecticut, the vaccine is also available to people who meet all of the following conditions:

  • Gay, bisexual, or other man who has sex with men, and/or transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender non-binary;
  • Have had multiple or anonymous sex partners in the last 14 days;
  • Age 18 or older; and 
  • Connecticut resident, regardless of immigration status

The monkeypox vaccine, Jynneos, requires two shots and takes a total of 6 weeks to become fully effective. Prevention is the best way to avoid getting monkeypox. If you are eligible to be vaccinated, you should especially consider getting vaccinated if:

  • Your partners are showing symptoms of MPX, such as a rash or sores;
  • You met recent partners through online applications or social media platforms (such as Grindr, Tinder or Scruff), or at clubs, raves, sex parties, saunas or other large gatherings;
  • You have a condition that may increase your risk for severe disease if infected with MPX virus, such as HIV or another condition that weakens your immune system, or you have a history of atopic dermatitis or eczema.

Eligible individuals may receive the Jynneos MPX vaccine, as well as the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.

Vaccination for qualified individuals will be by appointment only. To review the CT-DPH Jynneos Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions, click here. For more information on vaccine availability in Connecticut and where to get vaccinated, please visit the CT-DPH website or view the Town of East Hartford MPX Vaccination Flyer.