The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) process for mpox vaccines, following the alarming spread of the disease, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The outbreak has now expanded beyond the DRC, with a new viral strain first identified in September 2023 being detected outside the country. This move, announced by WHO Director-General on August 7, 2024, seeks to accelerate the availability of vaccines in response to the public health emergency.
The EUL procedure is a crucial mechanism for expediting the deployment of unlicensed medical products, such as vaccines, during health crises. WHO is urging vaccine manufacturers to submit data to ensure their products are safe, effective, and of assured quality. This listing will particularly benefit lower-income countries lacking national regulatory approvals, facilitating vaccine procurement by global partners like Gavi and UNICEF for broader distribution.
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, continues to be a serious concern as it can be transmitted through contact with infectious individuals, contaminated materials, or infected animals. WHO has already recommended two vaccines currently in use against mpox, as advised by its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE). The swift granting of EUL for additional vaccines is expected to enhance global response efforts to control the outbreak.
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