Mpox vaccination

Mpox infections (formerly known as monkeypox) are viral diseases that have been occurring in Germany in recent years, either as isolated cases or in regionally limited outbreaks. For preventive vaccination, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends protection only for certain risk groups. These include people at increased risk of exposure (e.g. those with frequently changing sexual partners) and people with an occupational indication in accordance with the Biological Agents Ordinance who work specifically with mpox viruses.

Mpox is a viral infectious disease that is mainly prevalent in West and Central Africa and occurs only rarely in Germany. It is primarily transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact, with sexual contact playing a significant role. Infection is also possible through contact, smear and droplet transmission. Following infection, those affected often complain of fever, chills, headaches, swollen lymph nodes and limb pain as well as a characteristic, painful rash with vesicles and pustules. In most cases, the disease resolves on its own within a few weeks. However, caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals, as severe disease progression and complications such as secondary bacterial infections can occur in these cases.

Vaccination is the most important form of protection against mpox. It not only reduces the risk of infection but can also mitigate the severity of the illness should it be contracted.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends the vaccination for certain risk groups:

The Imvanex vaccine is currently in use in Germany. It offers a high level of safety and effective protection against mpox and smallpox. It is a non-replicating live vaccine authorised for people aged 12 and over. Imvanex does not cause disease in humans and cannot replicate in the body after injection. Immunisation involves two doses, administered at least 28 days apart. 

As with any vaccine, side effects may also occur with the mpox vaccine. The list of side effects is not exhaustive; therefore, only very common and common side effects of the vaccine are mentioned here.

Very common 

Common 

As the list of occasional or rare side effects is very extensive, please feel free to find out more by consulting the information sheet on vaccination against monkeypox published by the Robert Koch Institute. You will find the information sheet in English here

Important: Occasionally, certain laboratory test results – such as liver enzyme levels or white blood cell count – may be affected following vaccination. Please inform your doctor of the vaccination when undergoing such tests. If you have any questions about the risks and side effects of the vaccination, please contact your doctor or your pharmacy.

SBK will cover the cost of the mpox vaccination if you belong to a high-risk or occupational group. The service is generally charged directly to us through your SBK Healthcare Card. You will often receive the vaccine on the basis of a prescription from your health insurance provider.

There are several options available to you:

1. GP practices 

The vaccine requires special storage conditions. For this reason, public pharmacies usually order the vaccine on the basis of a prescription.

2. Public health authorities 

Many public health authorities administer the mpox vaccine. You can use the Robert Koch Institute’s online tool to find your local public health department and inquire where the vaccine is available in your area.

3. Infectious diseases outpatient clinics and HIV clinics 

The vaccination is also offered at some hospitals and clinics specialising in HIV.

4. Specialised vaccination centres in major cities 

The vaccination is always in stock at these centres, so you can get vaccinated at short notice.

Note on vaccine availability: Check with your pharmacy in advance regarding the availability and delivery time of the vaccine. The vaccine is usually not ordered through regular wholesale channels, which may result in longer waiting times.