Brazil manages mpox rise with targeted vaccination strategy

Brazil has recorded 665 cases of mpox through October 2026, with no reported deaths. In response to the increase in cases, the Ministry of Health has strategically acquired up to 20,000 vaccine doses to prevent a larger outbreak.

Medical experts, including infectious disease specialist Carolina Lázari, state that mass vaccination is currently unnecessary. Instead, immunization efforts are being directed toward high-risk groups, such as laboratory professionals and individuals with compromised immune systems, specifically those living with HIV/AIDS.

In Rio de Janeiro, health authorities are monitoring a rise in infections, with the municipality recording 221 cases in 2026. The Rio de Janeiro Municipal Health Secretariat has resumed vaccination efforts using 2,000 doses provided by the Ministry of Health. The initial phase prioritizes adults living with HIV/AIDS who have a CD4 lymphocyte count below 200 cells/mm³. Subsequent phases will include other vulnerable groups as more doses become available.