Labcorp is working with US health regulators to potentially increase its mpox testing capabilities in response to a new viral strain detected outside of Africa. The company currently processes around 500 tests monthly but can ramp up to 25,000 if necessary. This comes as global health authorities are concerned about the spread of the clade Ib variant, previously found in Central Africa, which has been identified in countries like Sweden and Thailand.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals has partnered with Bilthoven Biologicals to advance its mpox vaccine candidate, TNX-801. This collaboration aims to develop a safe and effective vaccine to combat the growing threat of mpox, especially in light of the recent WHO public health emergency declaration.
Malawi has introduced mandatory Mpox screening at all entry ports following the identification of two suspected cases. The country is taking precautionary measures to prevent a potential outbreak, despite having avoided a significant Mpox spread previously. The Health Ministry is preparing for a worst-case scenario and has established a mobile diagnostic unit and launched awareness campaigns.
A new, more transmissible strain of mpox, dubbed ‘clade Ib’, has emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo and is spreading through heterosexual contact, raising concerns about a potential global health crisis. The strain is causing higher fatality rates, particularly in children, and exhibiting unusual transmission patterns, including household and school outbreaks. With the dry season facilitating increased migration, experts fear the virus could spread to neighboring countries and beyond through close contact at international airports. Urgent action is needed to contain the outbreak, including increased surveillance, contact tracing, and potential vaccination efforts.
Applied DNA Sciences (APDN) saw its stock price surge on Friday after submitting a validation package to the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) for its Linea Mpox Virus 1.0 Assay. The company seeks to expand the assay’s use to detect both clade I and clade II of the mpox virus, potentially increasing its testing capabilities and revenue.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has eased its rules, allowing organizations like Gavi and UNICEF to purchase mpox vaccines before WHO approval, aiming to expedite vaccine distribution to Africa amidst a growing outbreak. This decision comes as the WHO is expected to grant emergency use authorization to two vaccines in September. The move addresses concerns about potential delays in vaccine access for low-income countries.
Singapore has implemented enhanced screening measures at its major airports and seaports in response to the detection of a potentially more severe Mpox variant in Sweden and Thailand. These measures include temperature checks, visual inspections, and health advisories to prevent the importation and spread of the virus.
Virax Biolabs Group Limited (VRAX) shares are down today following the announcement of a $5 million registered direct offering. The company plans to use the proceeds for working capital and general corporate purposes. While the stock has seen significant gains recently, its high RSI suggests it might be overbought.
GeoVax Labs Inc. (GOVX) stock saw a significant rise following the confirmation of a new mpox case in Wayne County, Michigan. This news comes amid a global health emergency declared by the WHO due to a surge in mpox cases, particularly in Africa. GeoVax, a biotech company specializing in immunotherapies and vaccines, has previously shown promising results with its vaccines in preventing mpox.
India is stepping up its vigilance against Mpox, or Monkeypox, as cases rise in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While no new cases have been reported in India, the government has directed airports, ports, and border authorities to remain vigilant and has designated hospitals as nodal centers for isolation and treatment. The Serum Institute of India is also working on developing a vaccine for Mpox.
