Mpox vaccine

IMVAMUNE is a preventive vaccine offered to people that are at greater risk of mpox infection. It is a two-dose series given as an injection into the upper arm.

The mpox vaccine is provided to those who:

• are cisgender, transgender or two-spirit individuals who self-identify as belonging to the gay, bisexual or men-who-have-sex-with-men community and who are or plan to become sexually active with more than one partner.
• self-identify as sex workers or volunteer in sex-on-premises venues
• travel for the purpose of sex tourism
• travel to an area with ongoing community transmission of mpox and anticipate the following:
  • prolonged close contact (e.g. sharing accommodation) with people who reside in the area of active transmission
  • sexual contact with people who spend extended time in the area of active transmission
  • Canadian health-care workers being deployed to support the mpox outbreaks
• work in research laboratory settings and are at high risk of occupational exposure to the virus
• have been in close contact with someone who tests positive for mpox

Multiple vaccines can be administered at the same time. This means earlier protection against multiple diseases and fewer appointments. Receiving multiple vaccines at the same time is safe and does not compromise the effectiveness of each vaccine.

Since 2022, transmission of mpox has occurred in several countries where it was not previously reported, including Canada. Mpox outbreaks in Canada have been linked to sexual contact. Mpox has mostly affected those who are gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men. People living with HIV have also been affected more often than others.

IMVAMUNE can prevent mpox or make the illness less severe. When you get immunized, you help protect others as well.

The vaccine should not be given if you had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past or are allergic to any of the ingredients of the vaccine or its container (including antibiotics like gentamicin and ciprofloxacin). If you have a history or myocarditis/pericarditis linked to a previous dose of a smallpox or mpox vaccine, speak with your health-care provider.

Talk to a health-care provider if:

• you have a fever or feel unwell
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have any problems with your immune system or are taking medications that can affect your immune system (high dose steroids, chemotherapy, some arthritis medications)
• have a skin condition such as atopic dermatitis
• have recently received specific medications for mpox treatment
• have ever felt faint or fainted after a past vaccination or medical procedure

Inform your immunization provider if you have any health problems or allergies.

Reactions are generally mild. The most common reactions include soreness, redness, swelling, itching and a lump where the vaccine was given. Some may experience tiredness, headache, fever, muscle aches, chills or nausea. Reactions to the vaccine are more common in people with atopic dermatitis (a type of eczema). For mild reactions, a cold compress at the injection site may reduce discomfort.  Ask a health-care provider what medicine is best to reduce fever.

With any vaccine there is an extremely rare possibility (less than one in a million people) of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. For this reason, it is important to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs of this reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. This reaction can be treated.

IMVAMUNE has been associated in clinical trials with cardiac adverse events that were not considered serious in nature. Signs and symptoms associated with cardiac disorder may include:

• chest pain or discomfort
• shortness of breath
• fast or irregular heartbeat

Seek immediate medical attention if you have left the vaccination site and develop serious symptoms.

If you experience unusual reactions to the vaccine or you have any questions or concerns, please contact your primary care provider, pharmacy, Public Health office or Tele-Care (811).

The mpox vaccine is provided free through Public Health offices. Check the provincial scheduler for an appointment in your area.

If you are unable to find an appointment in your region, contact your local Public Health office to discuss appointment options.

Vaccination records for people aged 16 and older are available by registering online at MyHealthNB. To access your immunization record, please register or sign in to your account.

The paper record of immunization provided when vaccinated will continue to be the official record. Keep your immunization record in a safe place.

If the information on your record is incorrect or you received immunizations outside of New Brunswick and want them added, send an email to [email protected].

Immunizations administered prior to 1991 may not be readily accessible in MyHealthNB.  If your vaccination record is not available at MyHealthNB, contact the place you received your vaccines.