WHO Prequalifies Bavarian Nordic’s Imvanex Mpox Vaccine for Global Use

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently added Bavarian Nordic’s Imvanex vaccine to its list of prequalified vaccines, marking a crucial advancement in the global fight against mpox. This move is expected to improve both the availability and distribution of the vaccine, which is particularly important given the 103,000 confirmed cases reported across more than 120 countries since 2022.

Initially developed in partnership with the U.S. government as a smallpox vaccine, Imvanex is now approved for use in individuals aged 18 and older. Although not officially licensed for those under 18, it can be administered “off-label” to children and infants, as well as pregnant women. WHO’s decision highlights the vaccine’s vital role in tackling the ongoing mpox crisis.

With its prequalification status, international organizations such as UNICEF can now access and distribute the vaccine to countries in need, strengthening global health security. Studies show that a single dose provides approximately 76% protection against mpox, with this efficacy rising to 82% after a second dose. WHO’s endorsement is expected to expedite the global distribution of the vaccine.

This development offers renewed hope for preventing infections, stopping the spread, and ultimately saving lives as the world continues to respond to mpox outbreaks.

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