Vermont adds monkeypox vaccination opportunities, supply still limited – Vermont Biz
Vaccine now available to those at risk through certain providers and local health clinics
Vermont Business Magazine Vermont has expanded eligibility for the hMPXV (human monkeypox virus) JYNNEOS vaccine to certain groups at higher risk of contracting the virus and has increased vaccination opportunities, but officials caution that vaccine supply is still limited at this time.
hMPXV can spread to anyone through close and often skin-to-skin contact with someone who is infected. At this time, gay, bisexual, and other men or trans people who have sex with men make up a high number of early cases and might be at higher risk of coming into contact with the virus.
Vermonters who identify as gay, bisexual, and other men or trans people who have sex with men, who had or expect to have more than one sexual partner are eligible for vaccination. Anyone who has had an exposure to hMPXV or possible exposure should also get vaccinated.
“We encourage anyone eligible to seek a vaccine appointment. Vaccination is an important way to protect yourself and prevent further spread of this virus,” said Health Commissioner Mark Levine, MD. “We appreciate your patience as we continue working to make the vaccine available to as many eligible people as we can.”
Vermont currently has three confirmed cases of hMPXV. There are more than 18,000 cases in the United States.
The Health Department has been working with health care providers and partners that already care for people at highest risk of exposure to hMPXV to vaccinate their patients. Starting Friday, Sept. 2, it is also offering limited appointments at its Local Health Offices around the state.
The following providers have a limited supply of JYNNEOS vaccine, by appointment only:
- Planned Parenthood – All locations (patients and non-patients accepted)
- Community Health Centers of Burlington – Limited locations (current patients only)
- University of Vermont Infectious Disease/Comprehensive Care Clinic – Limited locations (current patients only)
- Health Department Local Health Offices. Starting Sept. 2, please call the Health Department to schedule an appointment at 802-863-7200 ext. 2 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Our call center will also be open this weekend only (Sept. 3 and 4) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is two doses, given four weeks apart. Appointments may be made for first and second doses.
Anyone with a rash that looks like hMPXV (which may look like pimples, blisters or sores) should talk to their health care provider, even if they don’t think they’ve had contact with someone who has hMPXV. If you do not have a health care provider, call 2-1-1 to be connected to care, or contact the nearest federally qualified health center or one of Vermont’s free & referral clinics.
As of Sept. 1, Vermont has received 266 vials of vaccine. The federal supply is determined by population of people considered at-risk and the number of new cases.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is being given intradermally (between layers of skin) to maximize the number of available doses. This method allows for a lower dose of vaccine that studies have shown have a similar immune response to vaccine given subcutaneously (under the skin).
For more information, visit healthvermont.gov/hMPXV
About the Department of Health
We have been the state’s public health agency for more than 130 years, working every day to protect and promote the health of Vermonters.
Vermont Department of Health Burlington http://healthvermont.gov
