Monkeypox is a viral zoonosis (an infection spread from animals to humans). It is caused by a virus that belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus (which also causes the variola virus responsible for smallpox disease and the vaccinia virus, which is used in smallpox vaccines).
Historically, smallpox vaccines have been used in the prevention of smallpox infection, however, they are also likely to be effective against monkeypox.
There are two types of smallpox vaccines available for use in Australia for the prevention of monkeypox:
- ACAM2000™ – 2nd generation, live-attenuated vaccine
- JYNNEOS® – 3rd generation, non-replicating vaccine
Our Monkeypox reference page has been updated to included expanded eligibility criteria for those at highest risk of being infected.
To view the updated page in full, follow the link below: