UNICEF Issues Emergency Tender for Mpox Vaccines

UNICEF has launched an emergency tender for mpox vaccines aimed at assisting countries most affected by the outbreak, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has reported over 18,000 suspected cases and 629 deaths this year. This initiative, in collaboration with the WHO, Gavi, and Africa CDC, could secure up to 12 million doses by 2025, contingent on production capacity and funding. The emergency tender is designed to expedite the procurement and distribution of vaccines once regulatory and funding requirements are confirmed. The WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency on August 14, following the emergence of a new variant. UNICEF's efforts also include coordinating donations of vaccines from wealthier nations and deploying critical medical supplies to manage the outbreak. Health officials stress the urgent need for equitable vaccine access to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further transmission of the disease.