In a significant public health intervention, nearly 900,000 vaccine doses are being dispatched to nine African countries grappling with a severe mpox outbreak. On Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the allocation of 899,000 doses aimed at mitigating the impact of this resurgent viral infection.

The mpox crisis has escalated alarmingly, leading the WHO to declare it a global public health emergency for the second time within just two years. The recent outbreak has been fueled by the emergence of a new variant known as clade Ib, which has spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring nations, further complicating the health situation in the region.

In September, the WHO faced criticism for its slow response in rolling out vaccines, prompting a review of existing options. They eventually authorized Bavarian Nordic's vaccine for use against mpox and are currently evaluating Japan's KM Biologics' LC16 as a viable alternative.

To bolster vaccination efforts, the WHO is also launching a framework for the distribution of mpox vaccines, testing, and treatments in some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable communities, reminiscent of strategies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The allocated vaccines will be distributed among nine nations: the Central African Republic, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda. Notably, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has been severely affected by the outbreak, will receive 85% of the available doses, reflecting the urgent need for intervention in the hardest-hit areas.

The vaccine supply is being sourced from European countries, the United States, Canada, and Gavi, the global alliance contributing to vaccine procurement for low-income regions.

As per the latest figures from the WHO, over 46,000 confirmed and suspected cases of mpox have been reported in Africa in 2023, with a grim toll of more than 1,000 deaths associated with this viral illness. Health experts emphasize that swift and coordinated action is essential to stem the tide of mpox and protect vulnerable populations.

Stay vigilant, as this global health challenge continues to evolve. Are the nations ready to battle mpox effectively, or is there a larger crisis looming?