MVA-BN vaccine from the Danish pharmaceutical company Bavarian Nordic was prequalified by the WHO.
- The vaccine can be given to people 18 years and older and has already been approved in Europe and US.
- Single-dose given before exposure has around 76% effectiveness (and double dose has around 82% effectiveness).
About WHO Vaccine Prequalification (PQ)
- Genesis: It was created in 1987 to assure the quality of vaccines distributed by UN purchasing agencies.
- WHO List of Prequalified Vaccines: Vaccines showing positive outcomes after evaluation of relevant data, testing of samples and WHO inspection of relevant manufacturing sites are included in the list.
- However, inclusion in the list does not imply approval of vaccines and manufacturing sites by the WHO.
- Such approval is a prerogative of the National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs).
Significance of WHO Vaccine Prequalification
- Contributes significantly to WHO Expanded Programme on Immunization which seeks to ensure universal access to all relevant vaccines for all populations at risk.
- Helps to accelerate vaccine procurement by governments & international agencies such as vaccine alliance GAVI & UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
- Helps NRAs to fast-track approvals.
About MpoxPreviously known as monkeypox, Mpox is a zoonotic disease (spread between animals & people).
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