CDC declares no need for mpox vaccine boosters in the US

As mpox continues to spread in Africa, concerns have arisen regarding the need for booster doses of the mpox vaccine in the United States. Experts, including Dr. Ashish Jha, have stated that there is currently no clear justification for booster shots, especially since the last significant outbreak in the U.S. occurred two years ago. The CDC maintains that the general public should not receive more than two doses of the Jynneos vaccine, emphasizing the importance of full vaccination for those at risk. Recent studies indicate that immunity from the Jynneos vaccine may decline within a year, leading to questions about the necessity of booster doses to sustain protective immunity. While antibody levels peak shortly after vaccination, they tend to drop significantly after six to twelve months. However, vaccinated individuals are likely to have a stronger immune response if they contract the virus, which may help them recover more quickly. The CDC is actively monitoring the situation, particularly the emergence of clade I mpox, through various surveillance methods. Experts caution that the U.S. is not isolated from global outbreaks, and it is only a matter of time before cases may appear domestically. The agency continues to recommend vaccination for those exposed to the virus or at higher risk, such as men who have sex with men. To prevent a potential outbreak in the U.S., experts suggest that resources and funding should be directed towards addressing the situation in Africa, where the outbreak is ongoing. This proactive approach may help mitigate risks and prepare for any future cases that may arise in the United States.