Singapore Mpox Vaccine: Complete Guide to Protection, Safety & Eligibility

The Singapore mpox vaccineis a key preventive measure to protect individuals from monkeypox (mpox) infection and control potential outbreaks. With mpox cases reported globally, Singapore’s healthcare system has implemented vaccination programs to safeguard high-risk groups and reduce the severity of illness.

This SEO-friendly article provides comprehensive information about the Singapore mpox vaccine, including its types, effectiveness, safety, eligibility, and preventive benefits.

What Is the Singapore Mpox Vaccine?

The Singapore mpox vaccine protects against infection caused by the monkeypox virus. Since mpox is closely related to smallpox, vaccines originally developed for smallpox are also effective against it.

Vaccination can help:

• Reduce the risk of infection
  

• Minimise the severity of symptoms
  

• Prevent complications
  

• Limit community transmission
  
  

The Ministry of Health (MOH) Singapore oversees vaccination programs in Singapore and ensures that high-risk individuals have access to the vaccine.

Types of Mpox Vaccines in Singapore

Currently, two main vaccines are used for mpox prevention:

1. JYNNEOS (MVA-BN)

JYNNEOS is the preferred vaccine in Singapore due to its safety profile.

Key features:

• Non-replicating vaccine (cannot reproduce in the body)
  

• Administered in two doses, four weeks apart
  

• Suitable for people with weakened immune systems
  

• Low risk of serious side effects
  
  

2. ACAM2000

ACAM2000 is an older smallpox vaccine that also provides protection against mpox.

Key features:

• Live, replicating vaccine
  

• Single-dose administration
  

• Higher risk of side effects
  

• Not recommended for people with certain medical conditions
  
  

ACAM2000 is only used in select high-risk cases due to safety concerns.

Effectiveness of the Singapore Mpox Vaccine

Smallpox-based vaccines used for mpox prevention are approximately 85% effective. Vaccination significantly reduces:

• Risk of contracting mpox
  

• Severity of illness
  

• Duration of symptoms
  

• Chance of hospitalization
  
  

Even if a vaccinated person becomes infected, the illness is usually milder and recovery is faster.

Who Should Get the Mpox Vaccine in Singapore?

The Singapore mpox vaccine is recommended for:

• Close contacts of confirmed mpox cases
  

• Healthcare workers caring for mpox patients
  

• Laboratory personnel handling orthopoxviruses
  

• Individuals identified as high-risk by the Ministry of Health (MOH) Singapore
  
  

Routine vaccination of the general public is not required unless advised during an outbreak.

Post-Exposure Vaccination

The mpox vaccine can be effective even after exposure:

• Within 4 days of exposure: may prevent infection
  

• Within 14 days of exposure: may reduce severity of illness
  
  

Early consultation with a healthcare provider is important for post-exposure vaccination.

Safety and Side Effects

The Singapore mpox vaccine is considered safe, especially non-replicating vaccines like JYNNEOS.

Common side effects:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
  

• Mild fever
  

• Fatigue
  

• Headache
  

• Muscle aches
  
  

Side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days. Serious complications are rare. ACAM2000 carries a higher risk of side effects and is reserved for specific situations.

Vaccine Administration

• JYNNEOS: Two doses under the skin, four weeks apart
  

• ACAM2000: Single dose using a specialized skin-prick technique
  
  

Full protection develops about two weeks after completing the vaccination schedule.

Who Should Consult a Doctor Before Vaccination?

Individuals should seek medical advice if they:

• Have severe allergies to vaccine components
  

• Have weakened immune systems
  

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  

• Have chronic medical conditions
  
  

Healthcare providers in Singapore can determine the safest vaccination option.

Importance of the Singapore Mpox Vaccine

Vaccination is a crucial tool in preventing mpox outbreaks. It helps:

• Protect high-risk populations
  

• Reduce community transmission
  

• Limit severity of illness
  

• Support outbreak containment
  
  

Combined with hygiene practices and avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals, the vaccine effectively lowers the risk of mpox.

Conclusion

The Singapore mpox vaccine is a safe and effective method for preventing monkeypox infection and reducing disease severity. Targeted vaccination for high-risk groups ensures maximum protection while minimizing unnecessary exposure.