Bavarian Nordic’s mpox vaccine for adolescents aged 12 to 17 was approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday. This age group is thought to be particularly susceptible to outbreaks of the disease that has sparked global concern.
The WHO stated in a statement that on October 8, it granted prequalification for the Jynneos vaccine for adolescents.
After a new strain of the virus spread from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to its neighbors in August, the WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.
In September, the United Nations agency approved the vaccine’s use as the first shot against mumps in adults, making it easier for countries in Africa that have been hit hard to get the vaccine.
Mpox is a viral infection that typically results in pus-filled skin lesions and flu-like symptoms in children, adolescents, and those with weakened immune systems.
WHO’s most recent choice comes after the EU endorsed the medication for the antibody for youths in September.
Additionally, the Danish biotech company is getting ready to conduct a clinical trial to determine the vaccine’s safety in children between the ages of two and twelve, possibly expanding its use.
The trial is expected to begin in October and will be partially supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.
Although it granted Emergency Use Authorization for its use in adolescents during the mpox outbreak in 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved Bavarian’s shot only for adults over the age of 18.
According to the Japanese regulator, another mpox vaccine, LC16, manufactured by Japan’s KM Biologics, can already be administered to children with a special needle.
On the prequalification, Bavarian Nordic did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
