2024-11-19 23:30:00
A Nigerian health official administers a mpox vaccine, at the Federal Medical Center in Abuja, Nigeria, November 18, 2024. MARVELLOUS DUROWAIYE / REUTERS
A new vaccine against mpox, manufactured by the Japanese pharmaceutical company KM Biologics for emergency use, was approved on Tuesday, November 19, by the World Health Organization (WHO). The LC16m8 vaccine is the second to obtain validation from the agency, after MVA-BN in September.
This should “facilitate increased and rapid access to vaccines in communities where mpox outbreaks are increasing”, estimates the WHO. An emergency use authorization from the organization allows all countries to quickly approve and import a vaccine for distribution.
“The WHO emergency listing of the LC16m8 mpox vaccine marks an important step in our response to the current emergency, providing a new option to protect all populations, including children”said Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines, in a statement.
International emergency situation
On August 14, the United Nations health agency declared a new international emergency over mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, amid growing concern over a surge in cases of the new Clade 1b strain in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has spread to neighboring countries.
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According to the WHO, this and other strains of smallpox have been reported in 80 countries, including 19 in Africa, since the start of the year.
The Japanese government has announced its intention to offer the DRC 3.05 million doses of LC16m8.
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What are the key benefits of the LC16m8 vaccine for the Nigerian population in the fight against mpox?
**Interview with Dr. Lola Oduwale, Nigerian Health Official**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Oduwale. We’ve just heard about the approval of the LC16m8 vaccine for mpox by the WHO. How significant is this development for Nigeria and other countries facing mpox outbreaks?
**Dr. Oduwale:** Thank you for having me. The approval of the LC16m8 vaccine is a game changer for us. It not only marks a significant step forward in our fight against mpox but also helps ensure that communities at risk have access to vital vaccination resources. This approval follows the earlier validation of the MVA-BN vaccine, allowing us to expand our toolkit against the disease.
**Editor:** What are the expected logistical challenges in administering this new vaccine in Nigeria?
**Dr. Oduwale:** Logistical challenges remain, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. However, we are working closely with local health authorities and international partners to ensure proper distribution and education about the vaccine. Mobile vaccination units and community health workers will play crucial roles in reaching underserved populations.
**Editor:** Can you elaborate on the impact this vaccination campaign could have on community health in areas susceptible to mpox?
**Dr. Oduwale:** Absolutely. With increased vaccination rates, we anticipate a significant reduction in mpox cases, which will also alleviate the burden on our healthcare system. Safeguarding the health of the public now will prevent larger outbreaks in the future. We aim to create a ripple effect that promotes awareness and fosters overall community health.
**Editor:** how can individuals support the vaccination efforts in their communities?
**Dr. Oduwale:** Individuals can play a pivotal role by spreading awareness about the importance of vaccination, encouraging friends and family to get vaccinated, and participating in local health initiatives. Community support is vital in building trust and overcoming vaccine hesitancy.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Oduwale, for your insights on this important public health topic. We hope to see positive changes in the near future.
**Dr. Oduwale:** Thank you for having me. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against mpox.