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The World Health Organization (WHO) has made a significant step towards controlling the mpox outbreak in Africa by approving Bavarian Nordic's Jynneos vaccine for prequalification. This crucial approval allows United Nations agencies to procure the vaccine and facilitate donations, ensuring its accessibility in the region. The move comes as the mpox outbreak continues to pose a significant threat, particularly in Africa, where children under 15 years old represent a large proportion of cases and deaths. The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reports that nearly 70% of mpox cases in Congo involve children under 15, highlighting the vulnerability of this age group.
The Jynneos vaccine, previously known as Imvanex in Europe, is a two-dose regimen administered to individuals aged 18 and above. However, in outbreak situations, it can be given to infants, children, and adolescents, even though it lacks formal licensing for those under 18. The decision to administer the vaccine to younger age groups hinges on a careful assessment of the potential benefits outweighing the risks. The WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emphasized the importance of this prequalification as a crucial step in the fight against mpox, both in the current African outbreak and for future outbreaks.
Alongside the Jynneos vaccine, the WHO is also reviewing another vaccine, LC16, developed by KM Biologics in Japan. The availability of multiple vaccines adds to the arsenal of tools for combating the mpox outbreak. The Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is committed to supporting vaccine access in low-income countries, with up to $500 million allocated for mpox vaccines. This financial commitment underscores the global effort to ensure equitable access to life-saving interventions. The WHO has urged for an urgent increase in vaccine procurement, donations, and distribution to ensure the mpox vaccine reaches those most affected. This coordinated global response is vital to effectively address the ongoing mpox outbreak and protect vulnerable populations.
Source: WHO approves first Mpox vaccine to boost disease control in Africa