Mpox (monkeypox) vaccination
Mpox vaccination is available to eligible people in the ACT. General practitioners in the ACT and community service providers no longer need to make referrals for a vaccination.
Who should be vaccinated
People currently eligible to receive the vaccine are:
- sexually active men (cis and trans) who are gay, bisexual or have sex with other men
- partners of the people above
- sex workers.
The vaccine can also be used as post-exposure prevention for people who have had a known high-risk exposure. ACT Health will advise on the need for post-exposure vaccination if you have been identified as a contact of someone with mpox infection.
Information about the mpox vaccine
To be fully vaccinated, 2 doses of the vaccine are needed at least 28 days apart.
You will have the strongest protection from 2 weeks after the second vaccine, but there is some protection from having one dose of the vaccine. There is ongoing research about the vaccine - results from available clinical trials indicate that the vaccine is safe and is expected to provide good protection against mpox.
After you have been vaccinated against mpox, you may still be at risk of infection. You should continue to check for symptoms and take steps to protect yourself.
Find out more about reducing your risk and stopping the spread of mpox or go to Meridian ACT.
More information about the JYNNEOS vaccine is available at the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website.
Mpox vaccination clinics
If the eligibility criteria apply to you, you can book your vaccination at one of the clinics listed below.
You do not need a referral from your GP.
Vaccination is provided free of charge for all eligible people. Canberra Sexual Health Centre, Interchange Health Co-operative and Ochre Medical Centre Bruce will accept bookings if you are not enrolled in Medicare.
We encourage you to book your appointment as soon as possible if you meet the eligibility criteria to reduce your risk of mpox.
Clinics may have limited appointments and be responding to a high volume of calls. Your patience and courtesy while contacting them is greatly appreciated.
Discuss with your GP if you have concerns about mpox, the vaccine or questions about your eligibility.
| Vaccination clinic | Contact details |
|---|---|
Canberra Sexual Health Centre | Bookings can be made by phoning 02 5124 2184 between:
|
Interchange Health Co-operative | Bookings can be made by phone and online: |
| Ochre Medical Centre Bruce Building 28, University of Canberra Allawoona St and Ginninderra Dr Bruce ACT 2617 | Bookings can be made by phoning 02 6180 8500. Opening hours:
|
Additional vaccination clinics may become available in the future. Monitor this webpage for the latest information on where to access the mpox vaccine in the ACT.