The recent arrival of the MPOX vaccine in Africa marks an important step in the fight against the disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On September 13, the World Health Organization (WHO) authorized the use of the Jynneos vaccine produced by Bavarian Nordic Company. The vaccine is designed to address the alarming rise in MPO cases across the continent, especially as the outbreak spreads from Congo to neighboring countries. The current situation has health experts concerned about the evolving nature of the virus.
Learn about the current outbreak
Historically, mpox has been known to infect individuals sporadically, primarily through contact with infected animals. In recent years, however, things have changed. Jean Nachega, an epidemiologist at the University of Pittsburgh, emphasized that the Type I variant of the virus is now spreading more efficiently among humans, including through sexual networks. As of September 13, 15 African countries have reported approximately 6,000 confirmed cases of MPOX, with more than 700 people dying from the virus.
Concerns about vaccine efficacy
Despite the vaccine rollout, significant challenges remain. Ayoade Alakija, an infectious disease doctor and chair of the African Union Vaccine Delivery Alliance, stressed the need for a comprehensive healthcare strategy in addition to vaccination. The WHO prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine for shipment to Africa, the WHO said in a press release.
According to the World Health Organization, the MVA-BN vaccine can be administered to people over the age of 18 in two doses, four weeks apart.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said about 10 million doses of vaccine are needed to effectively control the epidemic. However, the efficacy of existing smallpox vaccines against type I variola remains uncertain.
way forward
In order to curb the spread of mpox, it is crucial to understand its dynamics. Many of the confirmed cases have been among children under 15, raising further questions about how the virus is transmitted. Without adequate vaccination and public health measures, the threat of MPOX will persist in Africa, requiring concerted efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
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