WHO sends pre-approved Mpox vaccines to Africa
The recent arrival of MPOX vaccines in Africa marks a significant step in the fight against the disease, which has been on the rise in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On September 13, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the use of the Jynneos vaccine, manufactured by Bavarian Nordic. The vaccine is intended to address the alarming increase in MPOX cases on the continent, particularly as the outbreak spreads from Congo to neighboring countries. The ongoing situation has raised concerns among health experts about the evolving nature of the virus.
Understanding the Current Outbreak
Historically, mpox was known to infect individuals sporadically, primarily through contact with infected animals. In recent years, however, the dynamics have changed. Jean Nachega, an epidemiologist at the University of Pittsburgh, pointed out that clade I variants of the virus are now spreading more efficiently between people, including through sexual networks. As of September 13, approximately 6,000 confirmed mpox cases have been reported in 15 African countries, with more than 700 deaths attributed to the virus.
Concerns about the effectiveness of vaccines
Despite the introduction of the vaccine, significant challenges remain. Ayoade Alakija, an infectious disease physician and chair of the African Union’s Vaccine Delivery Alliance, stressed the need for comprehensive health strategies that go beyond vaccination. The WHO, in a press releasehas prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine and it is being sent to Africa.
According to the WHO, the MVA-BN vaccine can be administered to people aged 18 years and older as a two-dose injection, four weeks apart.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that approximately 10 million doses are needed to effectively control the outbreaks. However, the efficacy of existing smallpox vaccines against clade I variants of mpox remains uncertain.
The path forward
Understanding the dynamics of mpox is crucial to contain its transmission. Many confirmed cases have emerged in children under 15 years of age, raising further questions about the transmission routes of the virus. Without adequate vaccination and public health measures, the threat of mpox will persist in Africa, requiring a concerted effort to protect vulnerable populations.
