The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Monday that it has approved the mpox vaccine, developed by Bavarian Nordic, for adolescents aged 12 to 17. This age group is considered particularly vulnerable to mpox outbreaks, which have triggered global concern. The approval of the Jynneos vaccine, granted on October 8, marks an important step in safeguarding younger populations from the disease.
Mpox, a viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled skin lesions, has been especially dangerous for children, adolescents, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The WHO previously declared mpox a global public health emergency in August, following the spread of a new virus strain from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring regions.
This decision follows the WHO’s earlier approval in September, which allowed the vaccine to be used in adults, particularly benefiting heavily impacted African countries. The European Union also approved the vaccine for adolescents in September.
Bavarian Nordic is preparing for a clinical trial, expected to start in October, to assess the vaccine’s safety in children aged 2 to 12. The trial is partially funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the vaccine for adults aged 18 and older but granted Emergency Use Authorization for its use in adolescents during the mpox outbreak in 2022. Additionally, Japan’s mpox vaccine, LC16 by KM Biologics, has been approved for children but requires a special needle for administration.
Bavarian Nordic has not yet commented on the WHO’s prequalification approval.
