The modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), a highly attenuated replication-deficient strain of Vaccinia virus proven to be safe in humans and immunocompromised animals, is being used for post-exposure prophylaxis among individuals with known or likely exposure to the virus.
The MVA vaccine is indicated for prevention of smallpox and monkeypox disease in adults 18 years of age and older who are at high risk for smallpox or monkeypox infection.
Due to limited supplies in the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for intradermal MVA administration of the MVA vaccine in persons ≥18 years.
Patients younger than 18 should receive the vaccine subcutaneously, and all patients who receive the vaccine should continue to monitor for symptoms after an exposure and reduce their risk of new exposures.
