Bavarian Nordic signs EU smallpox and mpox vaccine contract for up to 8 million doses
October 31, 2025
Bavarian Nordic’s new four-year contract with the European Commission marks a critical step in reinforcing Europe’s pandemic and biosecurity preparedness. The deal allows EU, EEA, and Western Balkan countries to purchase up to eight million doses of the company’s smallpox and mpox vaccine, with 1.1 million already secured. By including provisions for low-income country donations, the agreement strengthens both regional and global solidarity against infectious threats. As mpox cases decline worldwide, the continued investment in vaccine access highlights the EU’s strategic recognition that public health security is inseparable from resilience, ensuring readiness for future outbreaks and biological emergencies.
Bavarian Nordic’s new procurement framework with the European Commission represents a major advance in Europe’s long-term health security strategy. The agreement enables EU member states, EEA countries, and Western Balkan nations to purchase up to eight million doses of the company’s smallpox and mpox vaccine over the next four years. With 1.1 million doses already committed and 750,000 slated for delivery in 2026, the deal reflects a renewed commitment to proactive epidemic preparedness.
CEO Paul Chaplin described the agreement as “a recognition of public health security as part of the resilience that the EU is building to unify against threats on a larger scale.” Importantly, the framework also includes mechanisms for vaccine donations to low-income nations at adjusted prices, aligning with broader global equity goals.
Although mpox cases have declined significantly and the World Health Organization recently lifted the international health emergency designation, the virus continues to circulate in parts of Africa. Maintaining manufacturing readiness and regional stockpiles remains vital to prevent resurgence and ensure rapid response to new clusters.
Bavarian Nordic’s MVA-BN vaccine, marketed as JYNNEOS, IMVANEX, or IMVAMUNE depending on the region, remains the only non-replicating vaccine approved for both mpox and smallpox. The company has become a cornerstone supplier in national preparedness programs across Japan, the United States, and Canada, underscoring its global strategic role in biosecurity planning.
This renewed contract signals the EU’s intention to strengthen autonomy in health countermeasures and reduce reliance on emergency procurement during crises. By securing both regional access and provisions for global sharing, the agreement exemplifies how health preparedness and international solidarity can coexist. Even as mpox wanes, sustained investment in vaccines, stockpiles, and partnerships ensures Europe remains resilient against future infectious threats and potential bioterrorism scenarios.