Book your FREE Mpox vaccination today
The rise of Mpox is a global health emergency which is seeing more and more cases transmitted here locally. Find out what you can do to protect yourself and stop the spread.
Mpox is a disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Since May 2022, there has been an outbreak of Mpox across more than 100 countries, including Australia.
Latest update 11/11/24
Our Queer Officer, Jamie Heal, and International Students Officer, Saham Hettiarachchi, would like to remind all students that the free MPox vaccine is available to you. According to the Chief Health Officer, Victoria is currently experiencing the largest outbreak to date.
International students may face a higher risk of contracting the disease and experiencing more severe symptoms due to several factors affecting their vaccination coverage:
- Ongoing domestic vaccination campaigns have significantly reduced incidence rates among local students.
- Cultural stigma may deter international students from identifying as LGBTIQA+ and seeking support from community health resources.
- Concerns about the cost of vaccination can be a barrier, highlighting the need for clear, updated health information to reassure and guide these students.
Monash University Health Services (UHS) is offering fully subsidised MPox vaccinations for international students, so be sure to take advantage of this important health resource.
Who is eligible for an Mpox vaccine?
High-risk close contacts of an Mpox case and attendees of sex-on-premises venues and public or private events (particularly where sexual or intimate contact has occurred) in areas where local transmission of Mpox is occurring (ideally within four days of exposure) are encouraged to book a vaccination as soon as possible.
- As a preventative measure, the vaccine is also offered to:
- Sexually active gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men.
- Sexually active transgender and gender diverse people, if at risk of exposure.
- Sex workers, particularly those whose clients are at risk of exposure.
- Sexual partners (including anonymous or intimate contacts) of the above groups.
- People living with HIV (if at risk of Mpox exposure) and their partners.
How can you get vaccinated?
Monash University Health Services (UHS) are offering vaccinations free of charge to both domestic and international students at the following campuses:
Booking information for each campus clinic can be found in the links above. You can also learn more from the UHS here.
The MGA is committed to keeping our community safe and healthy. Book your vaccine today!