Examining the Patterns of Mpox Vaccine Uptake in a Vulnerable Population

Abstract

Background The current Mpox outbreak presents unique vaccination challenges in vulnerable populations. Understanding factors associated with vaccine uptake in vulnerable populations is required for a successful vaccination campaign. Methods This population-based cohort study was conducted in Clalit Health Services and included all individuals eligible for the Modified Vaccinia Ankara vaccine. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the characteristics associated with uptake of the first vaccine dose. Results Attendance to a primary healthcare clinic in the Tel Aviv district, repeated sexually transmitted infection screening, and the recent purchase of HIV-PrEP or PDE5 inhibitors were associated with higher vaccine adherence, whereas previous nonadherence with recommended vaccines, low sociodemographic status, and history of HIV were associated with lower adherence. Conclusions These findings highlight the need for proactive patient and healthcare provider–oriented educational campaigns to curb vaccine hesitancy, and may help direct resources toward underserved populations, hence increasing equality in vaccine enrollment.