This year, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported over 18,000 suspected cases of mpox, resulting in 629 deaths, with a significant majority of fatalities occurring in children. In response, UNICEF has initiated an emergency tender to acquire mpox vaccines crucial for containing the outbreak, which has been declared a public health emergency by both the Africa CDC and WHO.
The tender aims to secure vaccines for the most affected regions with support from Africa CDC, Gavi, WHO, the Pan American Health Organisation, and other partners. These organizations are working to facilitate vaccine donations from high-income countries’ stockpiles to curb the ongoing transmission.
Under the emergency tender, UNICEF will establish conditional supply agreements with vaccine manufacturers, enabling rapid purchase and distribution once financing, demand, and regulatory requirements are met. WHO is reviewing manufacturers’ submissions, with an Emergency Use Listing decision expected by mid-September.
Leila Pakkala, Director of UNICEF’s Supply Division, emphasized the critical need for addressing the current vaccine shortage and establishing a transparent allocation mechanism for equitable access.
This initiative not only aims to secure immediate vaccine access but also seeks to expand production, potentially securing up to 12 million doses through 2025, contingent on demand and funding.
Vaccines are part of a broader strategy to control mpox, with organizations also focusing on infection prevention, risk communication, and community engagement. UNICEF is providing a range of medical countermeasures, including personal protection equipment, diagnostic tests, treatment kits, and hygiene supplies to support frontline countries.
Original Story https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/unicef-issues-tender-to-secure-mpox-vaccines-for-most-affected-countries-124090100009_1.html
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