UK HealthCare Offers Free Mpox Vaccines on Campus

Amid the escalating cases of Mpox in Kentucky, the UK HealthCare, decided to fight back by launching a free Vaccine event on May 15, Wednesday. The event, taking place at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy Atrium, aimed to curb the spread of the contagious disease.

Details of the Mpox Vaccination Event

The Mpox vaccine, Jynneos, was offered to all attendees free of cost while supplies lasted. Parking for the event was catered for in the Press Avenue Garage and parking lots E26 and E27. “We’ve recently observed an uptick in the number of Mpox cases in Kentucky,” said Nicholas Van Sickels, M.D., director of infection prevention and control at UK HealthCare. “Getting this safe and effective vaccine can help protect you and the well-being of those closest to you.”

About the Mpox Disease

Mpox, which was formerly referred to as monkeypox, is a contagious viral disease manifesting through a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. It spreads through direct contact with lesions or skin of an infected person or when the virus enters the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract or mucosal surfaces like those found in the mouth or genital areas. It can also be transmitted to other household members and sexual partners. Notably, the majority of the observed cases are seen in unvaccinated individuals or those who only received one dose of the two-dose vaccine series.

Effectiveness and Eligibility for the Vaccine

It’s imperative that those receiving the vaccine get both doses. The vaccine is proven to be most effective – close to 90% protection – two weeks after receiving the second dose. The second dose is usually delivered four weeks after the first one. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends receiving the vaccine if one suspects exposure to someone with Mpox or if one falls under certain categories defined by sexual orientation, sexual behavior, or recent diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection.

Another Free Vaccine Event & Further Options

After the May 15 event, individuals looking for their second dose could locate an online Mpox vaccine provider courtesy of the CDC. Another similar free vaccine event was scheduled to take place at the Lexington Pride Festival on Saturday, June 29, at the Central Bank Center. While the Fountain Court Pharmacy, aligned with UK HealthCare, also offers the vaccine, it was stated that their provisions might not be complimentary.

More Than Just a Hospital

UK HealthCare extends beyond just being a line-up of hospitals and clinics of the University of Kentucky. Dedicated to providing advanced subspecialty care, their over 10,000 strong team is committed to attending to the most critically injured and ill patients. Boasting of the state’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and a Level 1 trauma center, this institution aims to continually advance medical possibilities.