In response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of mpox as a global public health emergency, Danish biotech firm Bavarian Nordic (BAVA.CO) announced plans to significantly increase production of its mpox vaccine. The company, one of the few manufacturers with an approved mpox vaccine, aims to ensure fair and equitable access to the vaccine, particularly in regions most affected by the outbreak.
Bavarian Nordic has informed the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that it can manufacture 10 million doses of the vaccine by the end of 2025, with the capacity to deliver up to 2 million doses in 2023. The company is expanding its production network to include facilities in Africa, signifying its commitment to addressing the urgent needs of the continent. Bavarian Nordic is collaborating with both the Africa CDC and the WHO to facilitate global access to the vaccine.
The WHO’s declaration of mpox as a global public health emergency marks the second time in two years that the disease has reached this level of concern. Mpox, a viral infection causing pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is typically mild but can be fatal in some cases. Two strains of the virus are currently spreading in Congo and neighboring countries: the endemic form (clade I) and a new variant called clade Ib. Since the outbreak began in January 2023, there have been over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths in Congo, primarily among children.
Bavarian Nordic’s decision to ramp up production and prioritize global access to its vaccine is a critical step in the fight against this emerging health threat. The company’s commitment to working with international organizations to ensure equitable distribution of the vaccine highlights the importance of collaborative action in addressing global health challenges.
