An independent panel of experts advising the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has unanimously voted to recommend the routine use of the Jynneos vaccine for individuals at high risk of mpox infection, regardless of the passing of the recent public health emergency.

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) made the decision on Wednesday, targeting certain individuals aged 18 and older who are at a higher risk of contracting mpox. This population will now be encouraged to receive two doses of the Jynneos vaccine as part of their sexual health care, even in the absence of an outbreak.

During the 2022-2023 outbreak, mpox affected over 31,000 Americans, resulting in 55 fatalities, according to CDC data. The majority of those infected were identified as gay men.

The CDC identifies people at high risk of catching mpox as individuals who are gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, transgender and non-binary individuals who have received a new sexually transmitted disease diagnosis within the past six months, those who have had multiple sexual partners, engaged in sexual activities at commercial venues or large public events where mpox is spreading, individuals who are sexual partners of individuals with such risks, and those planning to participate in any of these mentioned activities.

It is estimated that over 2 million people in the United States are eligible for mpox vaccination based on the new recommendations. However, only approximately 23% of this eligible group has received the recommended two doses of the Jynneos vaccine to date.

The manufacturer of the vaccine, Bavarian Nordic, has announced its readiness for a commercial launch of Jynneos in the United States, expected to take place in the first half of 2024. This development aims to ensure greater accessibility to the vaccine for those at high risk of mpox infection.

The endorsement from the CDC's ACIP reflects the importance of ongoing preventative measures for high-risk individuals, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and protection against mpox. Vaccination remains a crucial aspect of sexual health care and the broader efforts to mitigate the spread of this infectious disease.