1. BLOG
  2. Medication Updates
  3. Monkeypox Vaccine Emergency Use Authorization

Monkeypox Vaccine Emergency Use Authorization

Last updated Aug 29, 2022 | Health Trends, Medication Updates, Pharmacy News

On August 9th, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the JYNNEOS vaccine. Here is what you need to know about the monkeypox vaccine emergency use authorization. 

JYNNEOS Vaccine Authorization Details 

This authorization allows healthcare providers to administer the vaccine by intradermal injection for high risk individuals that are 18 years of age or older. By allowing this vaccine to be administered intradermally, it will increase the total number of doses available by up to five-fold. The EUA also allows for the vaccine to be administered to individuals younger than 18 years of age who are determined to be at high risk of monkeypox infection. In this under 18 years old group, the JYNNEOS vaccine is administered subcutaneously.

Background of the JYNNEOS Vaccine

JYNNEOS, produced by Denmark’s Bavarian Nordic, was approved in 2019 for the prevention of smallpox and monkeypox disease in adults at high risk of contracting the disease that were 18 years of age and older. In this original indication, the JYNNEOS vaccine is administered as two doses from a single use vial, subcutaneously, 28 days apart. A person is considered protected 14 days after the second dose.

For Monkeypox prevention, the EUA now allows for a smaller amount of the subcutaneous dose to be administered intradermally. The timing of the vaccine will remain the same, with two doses given 28 days apart. This dosing method is based on a clinical study from 2015 that compared intradermal dosing to subcutaneous for this vaccine.

JYNNEOS Vaccine Contraindications and Precautions

The JYNNEOS vaccine is contraindicated and not recommended for individuals who had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of JYNNEOS. 

Additionally, the JYNNEOS vaccine contains small amounts of gentamicin and ciprofloxacin and is produced using chicken embryo fibroblast cells. Due to these components extra precautions are recommended prior to receiving the vaccine and post-vaccination surveillance is recommended for individuals with a history of a severe allergic reaction to gentamicin or ciprofloxacin. Precautions should also be taken for people who have a history of severe allergic reaction to chicken or egg protein and are currently avoiding exposure to all chicken or egg products. Lastly, precautions should be taken for people experiencing moderate or severe acute illness, with or without fever on the day of vaccination – in this case, it is recommended to delay the vaccine until the illness resolves.

JYNNEOS Vaccine Side Effects

Possible side effects from the JYNNEOS vaccine include injection site pain, swelling, itching, tiredness, headache, nausea, chills, and muscle aches. Patients receiving the intradermal administration route may also experience prolonged hardening of the skin or redness of the skin at the injection site. Most side effects will resolve on their own. 

Preventative Measures and Closing Points

In conjunction with the vaccine, it is important to continue to counsel patients on preventative measures that can be taken to avoid Monkeypox infection. Individuals can prevent Monkeypox infection by avoiding close contact, including skin-to-skin and intimate contact, with someone who has the disease. It can also be prevented by avoiding prolonged exposure to respiratory secretions, this includes face-to-face contact with someone currently infected. According to the CDC, “A person is considered to be infectious until there is full healing of the rash with formation of a fresh layer of skin.” 

Educating our community on preventative measures is key as we navigate the unknown territory of the vaccine effectiveness in this outbreak.

 

Keep in Touch

Your monthly email to stay up to date with the latest in healthcare and technology.

Related Posts

What Pharmacists Should Know About Medicare Open Enrollment 2024
What Pharmacists Should Know About Medicare Open Enrollment 2024

The Medicare Open Enrollment period for 2024 is quickly approaching – this is a critical time for both your patients and your pharmacy. Every year, the enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7. This leaves very little time before patients need to re-evaluate their insurance. Below are a few tips on how your pharmacy can prepare for the upcoming enrollment period.

read more
Advancing Healthcare Accessibility: Point-of-Care Testing in Independent Pharmacies
Advancing Healthcare Accessibility: Point-of-Care Testing in Independent Pharmacies

Whether addressing acute pharyngitis, influenza, COVID-19, or other respiratory infections, the ability to swiftly identify causative agents empowers healthcare providers to make informed decisions that significantly impact patient outcomes. Independent pharmacies have emerged as pivotal players in this arena, offering point-of-care testing (POCT) services that not only enhance healthcare accessibility but also alleviate the strain on hospitals and healthcare systems.

read more
The 2023-2024 Flu Season: What Pharmacists Need to Know
The 2023-2024 Flu Season: What Pharmacists Need to Know

As we gear up for the upcoming flu season of 2023-2024, it’s important to reflect on the lessons of the previous year, and understand how the coming year may look different. In this article, we’ll delve into a comprehensive breakdown of the past season’s dynamics and provide valuable insights to equip you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

read more
digital pharmacist - transform your pharmacy illustration

Ready to Transform Your Pharmacy?

Get Started With Your Demo Today.

 

Existing customer looking for help? Head to our contact us page and fill out the form, or give us a call: 877-959-7550