MPOXED

The European Union’s new joint procurement contract with Bavarian Nordic marks a major step in strengthening Europe’s pandemic preparedness. Covering up to 8 million doses of the MVA-BN vaccine for mpox and smallpox, the four-year deal builds on lessons from COVID-19 by emphasizing shared stockpiles and coordinated response. With 20 countries participating, the contract ensures equitable access, cost efficiency, and rapid deployment during future outbreaks. Led by HERA, the initiative reflects the EU’s commitment to collective health security and reduced dependency on fragmented national strategies, reinforcing Europe’s ability to respond decisively to cross-border biological threats.

Roughly one-third of Japan’s donated LC16 mpox vaccine doses in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are going to waste due to storage and handling challenges. Each vial contains 250 doses that must be used within hours once mixed, leaving little flexibility for low-turnout vaccination sessions. Despite this loss, over half a million people have been immunized, and cases in Congo are declining. The situation highlights the logistical difficulties of delivering complex vaccines in regions with fragile infrastructure and instability. Improving cold-chain systems, community mobilization, and flexible vaccination strategies will be essential to ensure that future donations reach those most in need.

New research published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases shows that natural mpox infection provides stronger and longer-lasting immunity—up to two years—compared with vaccination using Jynneos, whose protection declines over time. Researchers from Belgium and the Netherlands found that post-infection antibody levels were significantly higher than those generated by vaccination, highlighting the need for targeted booster campaigns to sustain population immunity. The study also confirmed no long-term viral shedding in recovered patients. Experts emphasize the importance of next-generation vaccines focused on antigens that trigger durable, cross-protective immune responses, particularly for low-resource regions facing repeated outbreaks.

In Kinshasa, where the memory of mpox’s devastating peak remains vivid, a year-long vaccination campaign has transformed fear into trust. Despite logistical hurdles and limited supplies, more than 450,000 people have been immunized, thanks to collaboration between the Ministry of Health, WHO, Gavi, and community health workers. Survivors’ testimonies and visible proof of the vaccine’s effectiveness have shifted public attitudes, strengthening confidence not only in mpox prevention but in vaccination overall. Kinshasa’s response demonstrates how determination, community engagement, and transparent communication can turn crisis into resilience, creating a stronger foundation for public health and future outbreak preparedness.

Liberia’s Ministry of Health has launched a 90-day national response strategy as mpox cases continue to rise across all 15 counties. Despite more than 1,100 recoveries and a low fatality rate of 0.5 percent, widespread community transmission persists, particularly in Montserrado and Nimba counties. The new plan emphasizes aggressive surveillance, treatment expansion, and public education, alongside a preventive vaccination campaign targeting high-risk populations. With 42,720 donated doses ready for rollout, officials aim to test, treat, and vaccinate efficiently while engaging communities to prevent further spread. Sustained vigilance and coordination will be crucial to achieving Liberia’s goal of zero preventable mpox deaths.

Public health officials in San Diego County are urging residents to get vaccinated as cases of Hepatitis A and Mpox rise. Three Hepatitis A cases, including two hospitalizations, and 14 new Mpox infections highlight the growing concern. Vaccination remains the most effective protection for both diseases. Health officials emphasize hygiene, early vaccination, and awareness, particularly for at-risk groups such as men who have sex with men, people experiencing homelessness, and drug users. The County offers free vaccines at public health centers and clinics. Prevention through vaccination, hygiene, and early medical attention remains critical to halting further spread of both infections.

Mpox cases are rising again in Chicago, with 13 new infections reported in a single week and Latino and gay or bisexual men most affected. Health officials warn that waning public attention could allow the virus to spread further. While the overall risk remains low, Clade I mpox detected in California highlights the threat of stronger strains emerging locally. Vaccination remains the most effective defense, yet many have not completed the two-dose series. Free vaccine clinics across Chicago provide easy access. Continued vigilance, community outreach, and equitable healthcare access are essential to preventing mpox from regaining a foothold in the city.

Riverside County’s sharp rise in mpox cases, with more than half reported in just the last two months, underscores that the virus remains a pressing local health concern. As Pride celebrations begin, health officials are emphasizing prevention through vaccination and education. Completing the two-dose mpox vaccine series is key to reducing transmission, especially for those at higher risk. Free vaccination and testing at Palm Springs Pride and other county clinics make prevention accessible. The message is clear: vigilance, vaccination, and open communication are essential to protect community health and prevent a resurgence of mpox in Southern California.

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases exposes troubling racial inequities and treatment delays among mpox patients who received tecovirimat during New York City’s 2022 outbreak. Black patients were significantly more likely to experience delayed access to treatment and hospitalization, even after accounting for HIV status and insurance. Although most patients improved with tecovirimat, systemic barriers in access and care persist. These findings underscore that public health responses must extend beyond antiviral distribution to address structural inequities in healthcare delivery. Ensuring equitable access to diagnostics, timely treatment, and follow-up care is essential for achieving true outbreak preparedness.