The JYNNEOS vaccine against mpox, once known as monkeypox, is now available for free at two locations on the University’s Oakland campus: The Pitt Vaccination and Health Connection Hub, 4041 Fifth Ave., and Pitt’s Student Health Services, 119 University Place.

Mpox is a disease caused by a virus in the same family as smallpox and can affect anyone who has had close, sustained physical contact, primarily sexual contact, with someone who has the disease. Symptoms are often milder than those of smallpox and can initially include general signs of being sick: fever, chills, swelling of lymph nodes, fatigue, cough, muscle aches, backaches, headache, sore throat or runny nose followed by a rash one to four days later.

“We are really encouraging anyone who is interested to come into our center to get this free vaccine. You can schedule an appointment or walk in anytime during our open hours,” said Patricia M. Klatt, clinical director of The Hub. “Vaccination is the best way to prevent getting mpox, but if someone comes into contact with someone who already is sick with mpox, we can also give the vaccine after the exposure to hopefully prevent more serious symptoms.”

Patients need two doses of the vaccine to be fully protected. The second dose is given at least four weeks after the first dose. Those who have been exposed and show symptoms should have a follow-up medical appointment. The mpox vaccine also may prevent contracting the disease if given before exposure or within four days of exposure to the virus. 

At The Hub, vaccines are available by appointment to the Pitt community and general public by calling 412-383-4372 or walking into The Hub. The Hub’s summer hours are noon to 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, and 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays to Thursdays.

Student Health Services’ hours of operation over the summer are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Pitt students must make an appointment and can do so online or by calling 412-383-1800.

— Pittwire