The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a report analyzing the effectiveness of the JYNNEOS vaccine against monkeypox. The rare and potentially fatal disease has seen an uptick in cases, with outbreaks occurring across all 50 US states as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In an effort to stave off a potential spike in cases, public health officials are recommending preventative measures be taken, including vaccination. The JYNNEOS vaccine, originally intended to protect against smallpox, was found to be more than 88% effective against monkeypox after administering two doses to at-risk adults aged 18-49.
The disease has been found to be especially prevalent among gay and bisexual men, with most of the recent cases reported in the Chicago area. Despite some cases occurring in vaccinated individuals, the CDC maintains that vaccination is still the best course of action for reducing risk. Limiting the number of sexual partners is also recommended for immunocompromised individuals.
While the vaccine has been shown to have a 75% effectiveness rate for one dose and an 86% effectiveness rate for two doses, it is unclear how long immunity from the vaccine lasts. The CDC has not yet recommended boosters for those who are already vaccinated but may do so in the future. In the meantime, members of at-risk groups are encouraged to get fully vaccinated if they have not yet done so.
The recent study underscores the need for continued vigilance and prevention efforts in the face of potential outbreaks of monkeypox. Researchers at Penn State University have also developed a rapid self-administering test, which could prove to be a valuable tool for identifying cases early and limiting the spread of the disease. The vaccine, combined with continued preventative measures, offers hope for effective management of the disease in the future.
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