Mpox Vaccination Melbourne: Mpox vaccine, East Melbourne clinic

Everything you need to know about Mpox vaccination in Melbourne

What this page covers. Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral infection that re-emerged in global outbreaks from 2022 onwards, with continued low-level activity in Australia. Vaccination is the main way to reduce the chance of infection and the severity of any infection that does occur. This page covers what Mpox is, who the vaccine is recommended for, the schedule for pre-exposure and post-exposure vaccination, what the in-person Specialist GP consult at our East Melbourne clinic involves, eligibility for publicly funded vaccination, side effects, and the importance of ongoing symptom awareness. See the fees page for full pricing.

What Mpox is. Mpox is caused by a virus related to the smallpox virus. It typically causes painful sores or a rash, often in the genital, anal, or perioral area, sometimes with fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general illness. The 2022 to 2024 outbreaks spread mainly through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, with men who have sex with men disproportionately affected. Most people recover fully without specific treatment, but the illness can be severe and prolonged in some, particularly in people with immune-compromising conditions.

Who is recommended for vaccination. Vaccination is recommended for men who have sex with men with multiple partners (any age), particularly those on or considering HIV PrEP; sex workers and others at occupational risk; people who have had close contact with a known case of Mpox; healthcare workers managing Mpox cases; immune-compromised people in higher-risk groups; and travellers to areas with current outbreaks. The Specialist GP discusses whether you fit one of these categories at the consult.

How the vaccine works. The vaccine is made from a modified strain of vaccinia virus that cannot replicate in human cells. It was originally developed for smallpox and provides cross-protection against Mpox because the two viruses are closely related. The vaccine is given by subcutaneous injection. Your immune system learns to recognise the virus and produces antibodies and immune cells that protect against future infection. Pre-exposure vaccination significantly reduces the chance of Mpox infection; post-exposure vaccination within 4 days of contact may prevent infection or reduce severity if infection occurs.

Schedule for pre-exposure vaccination. Pre-exposure is the most common reason for vaccination. The standard schedule is two doses, given at least 28 days apart. Full protection is considered to be established about two weeks after the second dose. The Specialist GP gives the first dose at the consult where appropriate and books you in for the second dose. Boosters are not routinely recommended for most people after completing the two-dose course; immune-compromised people may need additional doses depending on their condition.

Schedule for post-exposure vaccination. Post-exposure vaccination is strongest when given within 4 days of a known or suspected exposure. Vaccination given between 4 and 14 days after exposure may still be useful, primarily to reduce severity if infection occurs. The first dose is given at the consult; a second dose follows the standard 28-day-apart interval if you had not previously completed pre-exposure vaccination. If you think you have been exposed, contact the clinic as soon as possible.

What happens at the in-person consult. The Specialist GP takes a focused history covering your eligibility, exposure context (if relevant), prior Mpox or smallpox vaccination, allergies, immune status, and any other vaccines that may be due at the same time. The doctor confirms the schedule appropriate for you, gives the first dose at the consult where appropriate, organises follow-up doses, and records the vaccination on the Australian Immunisation Register. The consult is also a chance to discuss your overall sexual health risk and review other testing or vaccination you may benefit from.

Eligibility for publicly funded vaccination. Publicly funded Mpox vaccine is available in Victoria for specific at-risk groups, including men who have sex with men with certain risk factors, partners of cases, certain immune-compromised people, and other groups as defined by state-based criteria. Eligibility is assessed at the consult based on your individual situation. The $149 in-person fee covers the Specialist GP consult and vaccine administration; the vaccine itself may be available at no additional cost for eligible patients.

Side effects and safety. A sore arm at the injection site is the most common side effect, sometimes with a small red area for a day or so. Some people experience headache, fatigue, or muscle aches for 24 to 48 hours. Rarely, an allergic reaction can occur — the clinic is set up to manage this on site. The vaccine has been used widely in Mpox vaccination campaigns since 2022 with a strong safety profile. People with significant egg allergy or active severe eczema should mention this at the consult so the Specialist GP can confirm the vaccine is appropriate for them.

Vaccination does not eliminate all risk. The Mpox vaccine significantly reduces the chance of infection but does not eliminate it. Continued attention to symptom awareness remains important — any new genital, anal, or perioral sores or rashes are worth getting checked promptly, particularly if you have ongoing risk factors. Discussion of overall risk and other prevention measures at the consult is part of the broader sexual health review. See our STI testing page for related tests and check-ups.