New Delhi: In a bid to combat the Mpox outbreak in Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) has granted prequalification to Bavarian Nordics vaccine, known as Jynneos in the United States. This approval paves the way for United Nations agencies to procure and distribute the vaccine in affected regions. The WHO is also currently reviewing another vaccine, LC16, produced by Japans KM Biologics.This prequalification status enables global health organizations, including Gavi, and the Vaccine Alliance, to coordinate donations and funding. Gavi has allocated up to $500 million to support Mpox vaccine distribution, particularly in low-income countries. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the approval, stating, This first prequalification of a vaccine against Mpox is an important step in our fight against the disease, both in the context of the current outbreaks in Africa and in the future.WHO has prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine, the first vaccine against #mpox to be approved!This approval is a major step towards expanding access and reducing transmission in high-risk communities.https://t.co/Tk700dct6J pic.twitter.com/v42K66u0rP— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) September 13, 2024What is MpoxMpox, part of the same virus family as smallpox, typically presents with milder symptoms. These symptoms include fever, chills, and body aches. In severe cases, individuals may develop lesions on their face, hands, chest, and genitals. Although less lethal than smallpox, Mpox can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children.Vaccine administration guidelinesThe WHO has authorized the Mpox vaccine to be administered as a two-dose regimen to individuals aged 18 and above. In cases of outbreaks, the vaccine may also be given to infants, children, and adolescents, even though it is not officially licensed for those under 18. This exception applies when the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.The WHO Director-General has called for urgent efforts to ramp up vaccine procurement, donations, and distribution, particularly in the most affected areas. Alongside other containment measures, expanding vaccine access is seen as critical to controlling the spread of the disease.Impact on poor countriesThe Mpox outbreak has disproportionately impacted poorer regions, with the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reporting that nearly 70% of Mpox cases in Congo occur in children under 15. These children also account for 85% of Mpox-related deaths.Last week, Africa CDC reported 107 new deaths and 3,160 additional cases across the continent. The organization, in collaboration with WHO, has launched a continental response plan to address the escalating crisis.
