Smallpox/monkeypox vaccine (JYNNEOS™): what you need to know

All content below is taken in its entirety from the CDC Smallpox/Monkeypox Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/current-vis/smallpox-monkeypox.html.

Mpox rash

Mpox is a viral infection that causes fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and a painful rash. The mpox rash may involve part or all of the body. Once it appears, the rash goes through several stages. Stage 1: Macules - flat, distinct, discolored areas of skin Stage 2: Papules - raised spots on the skin that are less than one centimeter wide Stage 3: Vesicles - small fluid-filled blisters on the skin Stage 4: Pustules - small, inflamed, pus-filled, sores (lesions) on the skin surface Stage 5: Scabs - hardened crusts of blood that form over sores, which help protect the skin as it heals Mpox lasts 2 to 4 weeks. You are no longer contagious only after all symptoms are gone, scabs have healed, and new skin has formed.

Vaccines

Vaccines are used to boost your immune system and prevent many diseases, some of which are serious or life-threatening. Vaccines “teach“ your body how to defend itself when germs, such as viruses or bacteria, invade it. After exposure to the vaccine, your immune system learns to recognize and attack the viruses or bacteria if you are exposed to them later in life. As a result, you will not become ill. Or, if you do get the illness, you will likely have a milder infection. Vaccines are very safe and very effective at protecting against certain serious diseases.

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