(ATLANTA, Ga.) — After monkeypox (mpox) was first detected in May 2022, cases increased rapidly in number until hitting a peak in August. Infection was primarily spread by sexual contact between gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, according to the CDC.
Today, the CDC released new data on a vaccine, known as JYNNEOS. While the risk for future outbreaks remains, especially amongst Black and Hispanic populations, ongoing surveillance, vaccinations, and communication remain the best chance for prevention.
JYNNEOS is a third-generation smallpox/mpox vaccine, and has been used widely to great effect. Lessons learned during the battles with smallpox and HIV have been instrumental in developing a comprehensive response to the original outbreak.
The CDC is urging those considered high-risk to consider receiving the vaccination themselves, as a new surge in cases over the summer remains a risk.
The CDC’s Christopher Braden told WSB’s Sabrina Cupit that efficacy was up to 75% after one dose, and 86% after two.
WSB anchor/health reporter Sabrina Cupit contributed to reporting for this story.