Bavarian Nordic A/S (OMX: BAVA) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, have announced the signing of an advance purchase agreement (APA) to secure 500,000 doses of the MVA-BN mpox vaccine for Africa. Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, stated that the APA will be funded through Gavi’s First Response Fund, which was established after the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure quick access to vaccines during health emergencies. The availability of all 500,000 doses is confirmed for delivery in 2024.
The MVA-BN vaccine, marketed as JYNNEOS or IMVANEX, has been pre-qualified by the WHO as of September 13. Bavarian Nordic is prepared to supply the vaccines, pending the signing of a supply agreement with UNICEF, Gavi’s partner in delivering these doses.
“The First Response Fund was created in collaboration with Gavi’s donors and partners to provide rapid funding for emergencies like mpox,” Dr. Nishtar said. “By using it for this direct vaccine transaction, we move closer to our goal of protecting those most at risk, just over a month after mpox was declared a public health emergency.”
Dr. Nishtar emphasized Gavi’s commitment to working with affected governments and partners to ensure the vaccines are administered effectively and efficiently. He also mentioned the potential for establishing a global vaccine stockpile if adequate funding is secured through 2030.
Paul Chaplin, President and CEO of Bavarian Nordic, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, noting the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting global health initiatives. He highlighted that the secured doses will enhance the availability of mpox vaccines for African nations and commended Gavi for selecting their vaccine, which proved effective during the global mpox outbreak in 2022.
In addition to activating the First Response Fund, Gavi has rapidly mobilized emergency funding for affected countries to prepare for vaccine rollout, including healthcare worker training and community engagement. Gavi is also collaborating with donors to facilitate vaccine donations.
Looking ahead, Gavi plans to establish a stockpile of mpox vaccines for future outbreaks, contingent on donor funding, and aims to support the development of a sustainable vaccine manufacturing industry in Africa through the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator launched in June.
