In response to a surge in MPOX cases and the emergence of a dangerous new strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), authorities have granted approval for the use of two MPOX vaccines. The country has witnessed over 20,000 cases and more than 1,000 deaths, predominantly among children, since the beginning of last year.

MPOX, a viral infection that spreads through close contact, manifests flu-like symptoms and leads to the development of pus-filled lesions. While most cases are mild, the disease can prove fatal. Concerns intensified this week after the World Health Organization (WHO) and scientists warned about the presence of a more deadly strain spreading in the South Kivu province of the DRC.

Despite witnessing the first human MPOX case in 1970, the DRC has, until now, never had access to vaccines or treatments to counter the disease outside of clinical trials. This latest outbreak has been hindered by national and international regulatory obstacles, inadequate funding, outbreaks of other diseases, and the stigma associated with MPOX.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, stands ready to facilitate the donation of vaccines from the United States and Japan, utilizing COVID-19 era protocols once approval for the vaccines is granted. On Wednesday, a spokesperson for Bavarian Nordic confirmed the approval by the DRC authorities. However, Gavi, which funds vaccine purchases for low-income countries, is unable to buy them without the vaccines being "pre-qualified" by the WHO.

The WHO spokesperson stated that the agency is currently working with vaccine manufacturers to establish an approval process. Nations are encouraged to proceed with their own approvals, providing the WHO with additional data to expedite the process. Overcoming the challenges in tackling the outbreak in the DRC involves addressing the stigma surrounding the disease, which can be transmitted through close contact, including sexual contact. Additionally, adequate funding is crucial, as highlighted by Cris Kacita, the national leader for MPOX operations in the DRC.

As the DRC takes this crucial step in approving the use of MPOX vaccines, the global community must rally to support the country. The authorization of vaccines, combined with enhanced funding efforts and the eradication of stigmatization, will provide a glimmer of hope in curbing the devastating impact of MPOX in the DRC.