Mpox Vaccination in the Philippines for 2025 — Rollout & Access



 Introduction

The ongoing mpox (monkeypox) concern has led to global efforts to distribute vaccines. In the Philippines, vaccine efforts continue, especially for those most at risk—healthcare professionals, close contacts, and immunocompromised individuals. This article explores the current state of mpox vaccination in 2025, including eligibility, access, and the effectiveness of vaccines used.


Current Vaccine Availability
Philippine authorities have secured JYNNEOS/Mpoxvaccine, authorized in several Western countries for mpox prevention. Supply is limited and primarily allocated for front-line healthcare workers, high-risk individuals, and designated containment teams. Some LGUs have also procured doses for contact-based ring vaccination.

Eligibility and Prioritization
As of June 2025, eligible groups include:

  • Healthcare and laboratory workers involved in mpox testing

  • Close contacts of confirmed cases

  • Immunocompromised adults—e.g., living with HIV

  • Individuals in institutional settings, like long-term care facilities

To become eligible, individuals typically need to be referred through their barangay health centers or confirmed by an LGU’s disease surveillance team.

Vaccination Process
The procedure involves two subcutaneous injections, given four weeks apart. Recipients are advised to follow up two weeks after the second dose for immunity confirmation. Common side effects are mild—a sore arm, fatigue or mild fever—and are managed with paracetamol and rest.

Vaccine Efficacy
Studies show the vaccine offers approximately 70–85% protection against mpox infection. It is most effective when taken before exposure but retains benefit when given to close contacts after exposure (known as “post-exposure prophylaxis”).

Current Access in the Philippines
Vaccine stocks arrived in late 2024 via WHO procurement for emergency containment. Distribution varies—some LGUs fully cover their priority populations, while others still rely on central DOH allocation. Delays may occur due to import procedures and vaccine shelf-life considerations.

What You Can Do

  • Visit your barangay health center to ask if you qualify as a vaccine priority

  • Watch for LGU announcements via official Facebook pages or DOH bulletins

  • Expect to wait a few weeks for appointment scheduling and follow-up

Conclusion
Mpox vaccination continues to be a key preventive tool in 2025. Although limited in availability, priority vaccination for high-risk populations is underway, backed by strong evidence of effectiveness. Filipinos seeking protection should stay in contact with local health centers and watch for official announcements.

FAQs (5)

  1. Is the mpox vaccine safe?
    The JYNNEOS vaccine is considered safe, with common side effects like soreness, fatigue, or mild fever—nothing beyond routine injection discomfort.

  2. How long does vaccine protection last?
    Protection can last at least two years based on current data, but boosters may be recommended depending on ongoing risk.

  3. If I had symptoms already, can I still get vaccinated?
    Vaccination is only recommended after full recovery—usually 21 days post-symptom onset—especially for exposed contacts.

  4. Are children eligible for vaccination?
    Currently, no. Only adults in high-risk categories are being vaccinated in the Philippines.

  5. Do I need a vaccine appointment?
    Yes—vaccination requires scheduling through local health facilities, especially for tracking the two-dose regime and follow-up.

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