Mpox (Monkeypox) is a zoonotic viral disease that can spread from animals to humans. Recent global outbreaks with the emergence of new virulent strains that can cause severe infections has led to declaration of Mpox as a public health emergency by WHO. Vaccination is crucial for prevention of the disease. JYNNEOS is a vaccine that is effective against Mpox. This article describes the importance of JYNNEOS in protection against Mpox.
Understanding Mpox
Monkeypox is an orthopoxvirus that is similar to smallpox. Symptoms associated with Mpox include fever, rash, myalgia, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus can spread through contact with infected animals and humans, primarily through skin-to-skin contact with infective rashes. There are 2 clades of the virus, Clade I and Clade II. New Clade I b variant is responsible for the recent outbreaks in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). JYYNEOS vaccine is used in the outbreak with the new clade of virus.
What is JYNNEOS Vaccine?
JYNNEOS (MVA-BN) is an FDA-approved 2-dose vaccine used in both Mpox and Smallpox prevention. JYNNEOS uses a Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA), which is a live virus that cannot replicate in human cells, ensuring a high safety profile.
How is JYNNEOS used?
JYNNEOS is administered as an intradermal injection that is injected just beneath the skin into the fat layer. The common sites of injection are:
on the back of the upper arm (above the triceps muscle),
behind the upper back below the shoulder blades, or
the shoulder skin above the deltoid muscles.
If person has a history of keloid scars (thick, raised scars), then subcutaneous administration can be done. Subcutaneous vaccine is also given for aged under 18 years.
After first dose, the second dose is administered at 4 weeks (28 days) from the first dose. If the second dose is missed after the time period, then consider the dose as soon as possible. Only high-risk groups (Travelers, Sex risk) are recommended for vaccination. Booster dose is recommended for those at occupational risk of exposure. Recovered Mpox individuals are not recommended for vaccination since it confers to protection from reinfection. Although, vaccinated individuals must take preventive measures.
Benefits of JYNNEOS
High Efficacy: a multijurisdictional study in U.S. demonstrated high effectiveness of the vaccine (75% on first dose and 85% after two doses). A study by CDC in the DRC reported that immunity is not diminished even after 5 years from vaccination, estimating a 7-year protection.
Safety: MVA is non-replicating in human cells providing safety with vaccination including individuals with weakened immune system.
Dual Protection: JYNNEOS is a versatile vaccine providing protection against Mpox and Smallpox.
Vaccines like JYNNEOS with high efficacy and safety profile are essential in the fight against Mpox disease. Furthermore, it is essential to understand the significance of vaccines in safeguarding the public health against the serious diseases.
Source
Vaccination Overview | Mpox | CDC Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board