Smallpox Drug in Clinical Trials for Treating Mpox in Africa
November 8, 2024
The “MpOx Study in Africa” (MOSA) marks a critical step in advancing mpox treatment in Africa. Led by the Africa CDC and PANTHER, this clinical trial will evaluate brincidofovir, a smallpox antiviral, for mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries. With high ethical standards and rapid interim analyses, this pan-African study aims to develop an effective mpox therapeutic, addressing a significant health gap. Africa CDC Director Dr. Jean Kaseya highlights MOSA as a testament to Africa's leadership in health research, prioritizing local needs and scientific progress for vulnerable populations facing severe mpox complications.
The “MpOx Study in Africa” (MOSA), a landmark clinical trial, will investigate the effectiveness of brincidofovir, an antiviral used for smallpox, as a potential treatment for mpox across Africa. Under the guidance of the Africa CDC and the PANTHER pandemic preparedness platform, MOSA aims to evaluate brincidofovir in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, and other nations hit hardest by mpox. This trial is a significant leap forward, especially for populations at high risk, such as children, women, and individuals with HIV, who remain vulnerable to severe mpox complications.
The trial’s platform-adaptive design, with planned interim analyses, enables early decision-making based on initial results, reflecting Africa’s commitment to innovative and efficient healthcare research. Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program and vetted by the African Vaccine Regulatory Forum (AVAREF), MOSA meets rigorous ethical and scientific standards. The launch of MOSA follows the August 2024 declaration of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security in Africa, underscoring the urgency to develop effective therapeutics in the absence of approved treatments.
This trial exemplifies Africa’s pioneering role in health research. “Africa is not just responding to the mpox outbreak; we are leading the charge by spearheading research and development,” remarked Africa CDC’s Director General, Dr. Jean Kaseya. Prof. Samba Ousmane Sow, President of PANTHER’s board, praised the study as a new standard for African-led research, emphasizing its role in both addressing immediate health needs and setting benchmarks for future initiatives.
The first interim results are expected in early 2025, with hopes that brincidofovir will emerge as a life-saving solution, solidifying Africa’s leadership in addressing continent-specific health crises and empowering communities to drive global health innovation.