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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How will the approval of the LC16m8 vaccine impact vaccination efforts and public health in Nigeria?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Ibrahim, Nigerian Health Official, on the Approval of the New Mpox Vaccine**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ibrahim. Can you tell us about the significance of the recent approval of the LC16m8 vaccine for mpox by the World Health Organization?
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me. The approval of the LC16m8 vaccine is a crucial step in our fight against mpox, especially in areas where outbreaks are on the rise. With the World Health Organization’s validation, we anticipate a more immediate and widespread access to effective vaccination in communities vulnerable to this disease.
**Editor:** How does the LC16m8 vaccine differ from the previously approved MVA-BN vaccine?
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** Both vaccines are vital in combating mpox, but the LC16m8 vaccine is manufactured specifically for emergency use, which allows us to deploy it rapidly in response to current outbreaks. Each vaccine may exhibit different efficacy profiles or storage requirements, so having multiple options enhances our immunization strategy.
**Editor:** What impact do you expect this vaccine will have on the current mpox outbreak situation in Nigeria?
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** We expect a significant impact. With the persisting challenge of mpox cases, having another vaccine available will bolster our vaccination campaign. It will help us vaccinate more people quickly, reducing transmission rates, and ultimately, protecting public health.
**Editor:** Can you share any specific plans for vaccination logistics and community outreach following this approval?
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** Yes, we have already initiated plans to train healthcare workers on how to administer this vaccine effectively. We are also coordinating with local health facilities to ensure that vaccines reach the areas that need them most. Community outreach programs will raise awareness about mpox and the importance of vaccination, encouraging people to come forward and get vaccinated.
**Editor:** how can individuals stay informed about mpox and the new vaccination effort in their areas?
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** We encourage individuals to follow updates from reputable sources such as the WHO and our National Health Service. We will also utilize social media, community health talks, and local health channels to disseminate information. It’s important for everyone to stay informed and to participate in vaccination drives, as collective action is key to overcoming this health challenge.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Ibrahim, for sharing your insights with us today. We appreciate your dedication to public health.
**Dr. Amina Ibrahim:** Thank you for having me. Together, we can make a difference in combating mpox.