The Allan Labor Government is protecting more Victorians from mpox, making free vaccines widely available at four new vaccination sites across Melbourne and more pharmacies statewide.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced the Mpox Community Pharmacy Initiative will be available until 30 June - adding to the 50,000 doses already administered in Victoria since a resurgence of cases in 2024.
The program is providing more local options and removing any associated financial barriers, including the cost of an appointment with their GP or any cost to receive the vaccine in a pharmacy setting - often around $20.
Four free vaccination sites are now operating at Northcote, Abbotsford, Carlton and Footscray to ensure people have the opportunity to access a free dose of vaccine - with bookings or walk-ins are available during weekday or weekend clinic hours.
The mpox vaccine continues to be available to eligible people through Sexual Health Clinics, general practitioners, Aboriginal Health Services, public hospitals, and some local councils.
The vaccine is most effective with two doses of the mpox (JYNNEOS®), administered 28 days apart to provide optimal protection.
Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral disease that typically causes a rash, fever and swollen lymph nodes and is mostly spread through prolonged physical or intimate (skin-to-skin) contact with someone who has mpox, especially with skin rashes, lesions, sores or scabs.
People may be infectious up to four days before they develop their first symptoms (which can develop up to 21 days after contact with an infected person) until all lesions have healed, and other symptoms have resolved.
Most people have a mild illness and recover within a few weeks, but some people may develop severe disease and require hospitalisation.
Mpox is not seasonal and there is a risk of continued spread in the community, which is why the Labor Government is continuing to encourage individuals who at higher risk of exposure to get vaccinated.
For more information, please visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mpox-immunisation-providers.
As stated by Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
"With the free mpox vaccination now more widely available across the state, we are encouraging eligible and at-risk Victorians to get their full course to keep themselves and others safe from this preventable virus."
"Vaccination is a simple and effective way to avoid the spread of mpox - if anyone does develop symptoms, we encourage them to immediately seek medical care."
