The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved a second mpox vaccine for emergency use. This vaccine, known as LC16m8, is developed by the Japanese pharmaceutical company KM Biologics. The approval aims to make vaccines more accessible to communities experiencing a surge in mpox outbreaks. Here’s everything you need to know about this significant step in the fight against mpox.
What Is the LC16m8 Vaccine?
The LC16m8 vaccine has received emergency use listing (EUL) authorization from the WHO. This designation allows countries worldwide to quickly approve and import the vaccine for distribution.
According to WHO’s Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, this approval provides “a new option to protect all populations, including children.” However, the WHO has advised that the vaccine should not be used during pregnancy or by immunocompromised individuals.
Mpox Vaccines Approved by WHO
Before the LC16m8 vaccine, the WHO had already prequalified another vaccine called MVA-BN, developed by Bavarian Nordic, in September. Both vaccines are expected to play crucial roles in controlling the ongoing mpox outbreaks.
The Current Mpox Emergency
On August 14, the WHO declared an international emergency over mpox. This decision was driven by rising cases of the Clade 1b strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has since spread to neighboring countries. The DRC remains the hardest-hit nation, with more than 39,000 suspected cases and over 1,000 deaths reported this year.
Globally, mpox cases have been reported in over 80 countries, including 19 in Africa. This alarming spread highlights the urgent need for vaccines like LC16m8 to combat the virus effectively.
Japan’s Vaccine Donation
In a landmark move, the Japanese government announced it would donate 3.05 million doses of the LC16m8 vaccine along with specialized inoculation needles to the DRC. The WHO has described this as the largest donation package for the ongoing mpox emergency. This generous contribution is expected to significantly bolster vaccination efforts in one of the worst-affected regions.
What Is Mpox?
Previously known as monkeypox, mpox is a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans and between humans through close physical contact. The disease causes symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and large boil-like skin lesions. While mpox can be deadly, vaccines are an effective tool in reducing the spread and severity of outbreaks.
Why Is This Approval Important?
The emergency use listing of the LC16m8 vaccine marks a significant milestone in the global fight against mpox. By increasing the availability of vaccines, the WHO aims to protect vulnerable populations and curb the spread of the virus.
The combined efforts of global health organizations, governments, and vaccine manufacturers are critical in addressing the mpox emergency and preventing future outbreaks.
Key Takeaways
- WHO approved the LC16m8 vaccine from KM Biologics for emergency use to combat mpox outbreaks.
- Japan has pledged over 3 million doses to the Democratic Republic of Congo, the worst-affected country.
- The LC16m8 vaccine joins the MVA-BN vaccine as part of WHO’s strategy to address the global mpox crisis.
- Mpox, a viral disease causing fever and skin lesions, has spread across 80 countries this year, with the DRC reporting the highest number of cases.
By addressing the urgent need for vaccines, this latest approval provides hope for communities battling mpox worldwide.
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