What You Need to Know About the Mpox Vaccine

Thinking of traveling to Africa soon? Well, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) suggests you might want to roll up your sleeves for an Mpox vaccine shot. Why, you ask? Recent updates show that Mpox cases are cropping up again, particularly in East African countries like DR Congo (the original troublemaker), Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Even though the numbers are dropping, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns there’s a new virus strain on the loose, keeping everyone on their toes.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox (not to be confused with its more famous cousin, chickenpox), is primarily spread through close contact with an infected person. And yes, this includes intimate moments, so this isn’t just your average “hands-off” policy. If you’re cozying up to someone, make sure they’re not sporting a suspicious rash.

Now, let’s talk vaccines. WHO’s Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation (SAGE) recommends a two-dose vaccine regimen for Mpox, which also doubles as a defense against smallpox—quite the two-for-one deal! The vaccine of choice is the JYNNEOS, produced by Bavarian Nordic. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best plan is to get the second dose four weeks after the first. Think of it like getting a booster for your immune system’s superpowers.

Currently, there isn’t a specific location in Nigeria announced for getting this vaccine. So, if you’re in Nigeria and considering the shot, a quick chat with your doctor would be the best course of action.

What’s the Catch?

Like all good things in life, vaccines come with their own set of quirks. After getting the JYNNEOS vaccine, you might experience some mild side effects. These could range from a sore or itchy injection site to muscle aches, fatigue, fever, nausea, or even chills. Basically, you might feel like you’ve just run a marathon or partied a little too hard. But don’t worry, these symptoms usually pass. However, if you find yourself struggling to breathe, feeling faint, or if your heart decides to play a drum solo in your chest, it’s time to get to the hospital—fast!

To sum it up, while the risk of Mpox is relatively low according to the WHO, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. And remember, if you’re planning on visiting places where Mpox is making a comeback, consider getting vaccinated. After all, no one wants to bring home an unwanted souvenir.