The World Health Organization (WHO) has granted its first approval for a vaccine against mpox in adults, marking a crucial step in the fight against the disease, particularly in Africa. The two-dose vaccine, produced by Bavarian Nordic A/S, is approved for individuals aged 18 and above, though it may also be used in younger age groups during outbreaks where benefits outweigh risks.
Due to limited production, the vaccine will be available for purchase by organizations like Gavi and UNICEF, with WHO ensuring equitable distribution of mpox tests, treatments, and vaccines to countries in need.
“This first approval of a vaccine against mpox is a major milestone in our fight against the disease, both for current outbreaks in Africa and for future prevention efforts,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
The vaccine had previously been approved in Europe and North America during the 2022 mpox outbreak, where it played a role in reducing the spread among adults. However, its effectiveness in children remains less well-known. Notably, most mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the hardest-hit country, involve children under 15, who face the highest mortality rates from the disease.
Since the outbreak began two years ago, over 103,000 mpox cases have been confirmed globally in more than 120 countries, with 723 deaths reported in over a dozen African nations. African health officials estimate the continent needs around 10 million vaccine doses to control the outbreak, but donor countries have so far pledged only 3.6 million, with Congo receiving 250,000 doses last week.
Mpox, related to smallpox, generally causes milder symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches, but severe cases can lead to lesions on the face, hands, chest, and genitals.