WHO Calls for Mpox Vaccine Proposals to Address Emerging Health Concerns
The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally reached out to manufacturers of emergency-declaration/” title=”Growing Mpox Outbreak Sparks Urgent WHO Discussions on Global Emergency Declaration”>mpox vaccines, inviting them to present an Expression of Interest for Emergency Use Listing (EUL).
On August 7, 2024, the Director-General of WHO highlighted pressing concerns regarding the escalating spread of mpox. A particularly alarming outbreak has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has begun to extend beyond its borders. Moreover, a novel viral strain that originated in September 2023 has now been identified outside DRC for the first time.
Understanding Emergency Use Listing Procedures
The EUL is a specialized process designed to fast-track access to unlicensed medical products—including vaccines—required during public health emergencies. This temporary authorization takes into account a thorough analysis of risks versus benefits.
WHO is urging vaccine developers to provide comprehensive data that ensures their products meet safety and effectiveness standards while maintaining high-quality assurance suitable for targeted demographics.
Facilitating Rapid Access for Vulnerable Populations
By granting an EUL, organizations can expedite access to vaccines—particularly benefiting lower-income nations that have not yet established their own national regulatory approvals. Additionally, this mechanism allows partners like Gavi and UNICEF to procure these vaccines more efficiently for widespread distribution.
What Is Mpox? Understanding Its Transmission Routes
Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease can be transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or animals carrying the virus.
Currently, there are two approved vaccines available against mpox; both have received recommendations from WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE).
For further details about this initiative and related developments, please refer to this source.
