Words by Isabel O’Brien
In response to the ongoing mpox outbreak in parts of Africa, the US government has announced a significant donation of 1 million vaccine doses. This contribution, alongside an additional 500m (USD) in aid, aims to bolster Africa’s healthcare infrastructure in tackling the viral outbreak, according to senior administration sources.
The announcement comes as mpox, a viral disease, continues to spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighbouring regions, triggering global concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently reaffirmed mpox as a global public health emergency, its second declaration in two years. Cases have now surfaced in regions as far-reaching as India.
The vaccines, expected to be those produced by Bavarian Nordic, are likely to be distributed by Gavi, the global public-private alliance focused on vaccine equity for low-income countries. The US has previously donated 60,000 doses and is now urging other nations to step up their contributions to address the crisis.
Mpox, while often mild, can prove fatal in rare cases. It presents flu-like symptoms followed by the appearance of pus-filled skin lesions. The current outbreak includes a new variant, clade Ib, which spreads more easily through close contact, including sexual transmission.
The US is working with international partners, such as Brazil and the G20, to accelerate vaccine production capabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, although Africa currently lacks the capacity to manufacture the complex substances needed for the vaccine.
