WHO Authorizes Adult Mpox Vaccine for the First Time

The first vaccination against mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has just been authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO). Especially in Africa, where mpox outbreaks have been particularly severe, this is a significant advancement.WHO Authorizes Adult Mpox Vaccine for the First Time

WELL KNOWN AUTHORISATION OF WHO AND CHALLENGES IN VACCINATION

• GAVI and UNICEF can now procure the mpox vaccine from Bavarian Nordic A/S as an approved product by WHO.
• The production of a single manufacturer is posing challenge as the vaccine supply is limited.
• WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes the importance of increasing vaccine supply and includes difficult-to-reach areas.

Vaccination Guidelines

• It is a 2-dose vaccine with the recommendation for adults aged 18 years and above.
• For use in an outbreak with the potential for a public health emergency of international concern, as assessed by WHO, where there are no other currently available options.

Impact on Children

• 70% of mpox cases are kids less than age 15, and deaths in this group is high.
• 107 new deaths representing a 10.6% increase from the previous week and 3,160 new cases up 22.7% 

Mpox Overview

• By the monkeypox virus, mainly in Central and West Africa
• Symptoms—Fever with maculopapular or petechial rash, lymphadenopathy
• Some protection from smallpox vaccine