The Ministry of Health has begun the Mpox vaccination exercise, which took place between 28 and 30 August. Preparatory training sessions were conducted for peer educators and district health officers in key districts in Eastern Uganda, including Jinja, Iganga, Bugiri, Mukono, Busia, Tororo, Soroti, and Kumi.

Following this initial phase, the vaccination campaign will expand to northern districts, including Dokolo, Lira, Oyam, Gulu, Amuru, and Elegu Border, to reach more high-risk populations.

Mr. Isaac Katabazi, Chairperson of the Joint Truckers Transformation Initiative and Acting Chairman of the Alliance of Heavy Truck Drivers, said stakeholders are working together to support the vaccination campaign.

The exercise prioritizes transport workers and other high-risk groups, including commercial sex workers, clearance agents, and police officers. With more than 300,000 vaccine doses available, Mr. Katabazi emphasized that coordinated action will be essential to overcome financial and logistical challenges and ensure nationwide protection.

Common Mpox Questions Answered by WHO

How many doses of the Mpox vaccine will I need?

The MVA-BN vaccine, for example, is administered in two full doses given 28 days apart.

The LC16m8 vaccine is a single-dose vaccine, meaning only one dose is required to provide protection. Booster doses are currently not recommended.

How effective are Mpox vaccines?

Both MVA-BN and LC16m8 vaccines provide strong protection against Mpox by reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe disease. However, vaccinated individuals should continue following recommended preventive measures.

Do Mpox vaccines cause side effects?

Mpox vaccines may cause mild to moderate side effects, including:

• Pain at the injection site.
• Redness and swelling.
• Itching.
• Muscle pain.
• Headache.
• Fever.

For the LC16m8 vaccine, a small scar may develop at the injection site.

Can I get vaccinated against Mpox if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Pregnant or breastfeeding women who are at risk of Mpox infection can receive the MVA-BN vaccine. Breastfeeding should continue after vaccination.

The LC16m8 vaccine is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Can I get vaccinated against Mpox if I am living with HIV?

People living with HIV can receive Mpox vaccines and should be considered for vaccination because they may be at higher risk of severe disease.

Either the MVA-BN or LC16m8 vaccine can be administered to people living with HIV who have well-controlled infection and are receiving treatment.

However, only the MVA-BN vaccine should be given to people living with HIV who are currently immunocompromised.

Can I get vaccinated against Mpox if I was vaccinated against smallpox in the past?

Yes. If you are eligible for Mpox vaccination, you should still receive the vaccine even if you have proof of previous smallpox vaccination or a visible smallpox vaccination scar