Mpox

Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus.

Public health experts are tracking an outbreak of mpox that has spread across several countries that don’t normally report the disease, including the United States.

The mpox virus is spreading mostly through close, intimate contact with someone who has mpox. You can take steps to lower your risk of getting mpox.

Mpox is related to smallpox with similar but milder symptoms, including a rash. Mpox is not related to chickenpox. Mpox is rarely fatal.

Mpox Vaccines

Vaccination is recommended for people who have been exposed to mpox and also for people who may be more likely to get mpox. Supplies of the vaccine are limited but are available through public health offices across Wyoming. While anyone can get mpox, eligibility for the vaccine is currently limited to those people who are at highest risk for the virus as related to the current outbreak.

Current Eligibility

The following individuals are eligible for pre-exposure vaccination if they live or work in Wyoming:

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, transgender or nonbinary people who in the past year have had:

• A new diagnosis of one or more nationally reportable sexually transmitted diseases (i.e., acute HIV, chancroid, chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis) OR
• Anonymous or multiple sex partners

People who have had any of the following in the past year:

• Sex at a commercial sex venue OR
• Sex in association with a large public event in a geographic area where monkeypox transmission is occurring

Sex workers (of any sex)
Sexual partners of people with the above risks
People who anticipate experiencing the above risks

If you are eligible for vaccination, please contact your local public health office to learn more and to set up an appointment. While the vaccine doses are being provided by the federal government, a small administration fee may be charged.