Mpox vaccination
State-funded for eligible at-risk groups — clade I and clade II protection
What it is, and why it matters
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is caused by an orthopoxvirus related to smallpox. The 2022–23 global outbreak caused thousands of cases worldwide, predominantly transmitted through close intimate contact in networks of men who have sex with men. A more severe clade I outbreak in Central Africa from 2024 has prompted renewed concern.
Mpox typically presents with fever, fatigue and a characteristic rash that progresses to pustules, often concentrated in the genital, anal and oral regions in cases linked to sexual transmission. Most cases resolve in 2–4 weeks; severe disease and death occur most often in people with advanced HIV.
How mpox vaccination works
The mpox vaccine used in Australia is a non-replicating vaccinia virus vaccine — derived from a strain of vaccinia (the smallpox vaccine virus) modified so it cannot replicate in human cells. This makes it suitable for people who are immunocompromised, including people living with HIV.
A 2-dose schedule provides the strongest protection. Some doses have been administered intradermally as a dose-sparing measure during supply constraints; the standard subcutaneous route is preferred when supply allows.
TGA advertising compliance. Vaccines are described by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Specific brands are confirmed with you at the consultation.
Funding and eligibility for mpox vaccination
Anchored to the National Immunisation Program schedule and ATAGI advice. Your immuniser confirms your eligibility at the pre-vaccination consultation.
Eligible at-risk gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men
Free under Victorian Government program — eligibility includes recent multiple partners, recent STI, sex worker.
People living with HIV
Free under Victorian Government program — non-replicating vaccine is safe in HIV.
Sex workers, sexual partners of eligible people
Free under Victorian Government program — current eligibility criteria available from your immuniser.
Laboratory and healthcare workers handling orthopoxviruses
Funded for occupational exposure under workplace arrangements.
Travellers to areas with active outbreaks
Available privately for travellers to areas of active clade I transmission — discuss with your immuniser or travel clinic.
Doses and timing
Schedules below reflect typical recommendations. Your immuniser will confirm exactly what applies to you, including any catch-up doses and co-administration with other vaccines.
- Two doses, at least 28 days apart.
- Subcutaneous (preferred) or intradermal in dose-sparing settings.
- Single-dose protection is partial; the second dose is important for durable immunity.
What to expect
- Sore arm and skin reaction at the injection site — more pronounced with intradermal administration.
- Mild fatigue, headache and low-grade fever for 24–48 hours.
- Severe reactions are rare.
Precautions
- A prior severe allergic reaction to a previous mpox vaccine dose is a contraindication.
- The vaccine is non-replicating and safe in pregnancy and immunocompromise — discuss with your immuniser if you have concerns.
How well the vaccine works
Two-dose vaccination prevents around 80% of symptomatic mpox in observational and trial data. Even partial protection from a single dose appears to substantially reduce severity in those who do contract the disease.
FAQs about mpox vaccination
How do I know if I'm eligible for the free mpox vaccine in Victoria?
Eligibility includes gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men with risk factors (multiple partners, recent STI, sex work, sexual partner of an eligible person), people living with HIV, and certain occupational exposures. The simplest path is to come in or call — the immuniser will check current criteria with you in confidence.
I had a smallpox vaccine as a child — am I still protected?
You may have some residual cross-protection, but it's likely incomplete decades later. Current ATAGI advice is that those at meaningful ongoing risk should still receive the modern 2-dose mpox vaccine schedule.
I'm travelling to Central Africa — should I be vaccinated?
For travel to areas with active clade I transmission, vaccination is reasonable. The vaccine is private for non-eligible travellers. Discuss your itinerary with the immuniser at your travel consult.
Deeper reading on mpox
Book your mpox vaccination
Walk in seven days a week, or book a guaranteed time online via Priceline.
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