New study finds routine vaccination holds key to reducing future mpox outbreaks in England
July 2, 2025
A UK-based study co-led by the University of Bristol and UKHSA finds that routine and surge mpox vaccination strategies among gay and bisexual men are not only life-saving but cost-saving. Modelling suggests such approaches could prevent 10,000 infections and save £9 million over ten years. The research highlights the long-term health and financial benefits of continuous mpox vaccination, especially for at-risk groups. With clade Ib spreading in sub-Saharan Africa and mpox still a global concern, this evidence strongly supports preemptive vaccination policies. Proactive immunization is a prudent investment in public health—not just prevention, but protection and preparedness for future outbreaks.
A new study co-led by the University of Bristol and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) affirms that routine vaccination against mpox among gay and bisexual men offers significant health and economic benefits. The research, based on England’s 2022 outbreak data, found that continuous vaccination supplemented by surge immunization during outbreaks could reduce projected cases from 11,000 to just 1,000 over the next decade—saving an estimated £9 million in public health costs.
The analysis, conducted by experts in infectious disease modelling and public health, underscores the dual advantage of vaccination: reducing disease burden and avoiding the high costs of managing outbreaks. Crucially, the study reveals that even low-level, continuous immunization—targeted at groups at higher risk—outperforms a reactive strategy of vaccinating only after cases appear.
Professor Peter Vickerman of the University of Bristol emphasized that this is a “clear win-win,” delivering better outcomes and lower costs. The findings have particular resonance amid concerns over a growing clade Ib outbreak in sub-Saharan Africa, where mpox is increasingly spreading in households and via close contact.
Though the modelling focused on transmission within sexual networks of gay and bisexual men, the team plans to expand its analysis to include broader transmission dynamics across the population. The goal is to inform comprehensive vaccination policy, especially if mpox begins to spread more widely through heterosexual networks.
With the UK now offering mpox vaccines nationwide for those at increased risk, this study adds urgency and clarity: vaccination is not a luxury but a necessary investment. As Dr. Sema Mandal of UKHSA stated, prevention remains essential.
In the context of emerging global health threats, this research provides a compelling case for proactive, equity-driven vaccination programs. Mpox may be rare—but its impact is real, and preparedness is our most effective shield.