WHO Prequalifies Bavarian Nordic's Mpox Vaccine For Africa Outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved Bavarian Nordic's mpox vaccine, Jynneos, for in controlling the outbreak in Africa. This prequalification allows United Nations agencies to purchase and distribute the vaccine. WHO is also reviewing another vaccine, LC16, produced by Japan's KM Biologics.

"This first pre-qualification 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 future," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Mpox belongs to the same virus family as smallpox but typically results in milder symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches. Severe cases can lead to lesions on various parts of the body including the face, hands, chest, and genitals.

The mpox vaccine will be administered as a two-dose regimen for individuals aged 18 and above under WHO authorisation. In outbreak situations, it may also be given to infants, children, and adolescents if the benefits outweigh the risks despite not being licensed for those under 18.

Impact on Poor Countries

The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported that nearly 70% of mpox cases in Congo involve children under 15 years old. These children also account for 85% of deaths related to mpox. Last week alone saw 107 new deaths and 3,160 new cases following a continental response plan launched by Africa CDC and WHO.

A patient showing his hand with a sore caused by an infection of the monkeypox virus was seen in the isolation area for monkeypox patients at Arzobispo Loayza hospital in Lima, Peru. (Photo by Ernesto BENAVIDES / AFP)

Funding and Distribution Efforts

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has up to $500 million available to fund mpox vaccines for low-income countries. The UN health agency chief has called for an urgent increase in vaccine procurement, donations, and distribution to ensure that vaccines reach the most affected areas alongside other response measures.

This approval marks a significant milestone in combating mpox outbreaks both currently affecting Africa and potentially future ones. The coordinated efforts by WHO and other agencies aim to mitigate the impact of this disease globally.