WHO Approves First Mpox Vaccine for Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the first mpox vaccine, the MVA-BN, facilitating its distribution in Africa amid rising cases. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, vaccinations will commence on October 2, with 50,000 doses donated by the U.S. government and 200,000 from the EU aimed at high-risk groups. However, the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines has issued warnings against unauthorized mpox vaccines being sold by individuals and organizations, stressing that these lack necessary regulatory approval and safety assurances. The DOH emphasizes that the public should wait for legally available vaccines to avoid potential health risks. As mpox cases are reported globally, the need for safe and effective vaccination is underscored, particularly in regions experiencing outbreaks.