First delivery of mpox vaccine doses arrives in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Today marks a significant milestone in the coordinated effort to combat the mpox outbreak as almost 100,000 vaccine doses will arrive in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This delivery is part of a larger initiative led by HERA, which has pledged 215,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine to African countries affected by the outbreak.

Through Team Europe, an additional 351,500 vaccine doses from nine European countries, including France, Germany, and Spain, will be donated to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This brings the total number of mpox vaccine doses donated to at least 566,500, highlighting Europe's commitment to addressing the health crisis.

The European Union’s support extends beyond vaccine donations. As part of its Global Health Strategy and Global Gateway investment plan, the EU is focusing on strengthening health systems in Africa. This includes securing pharmaceutical supply chains, investing in infrastructure, and fostering local manufacturing capabilities.

The EU’s coordinated response involves regular meetings of the HERA Board and the Health Security Committee, ensuring swift and efficient action in times of crisis. The Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), through its Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC), stands ready to provide further aid, including medical equipment and expertise.

In collaboration with Africa CDC, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is working on epidemiological research in the DRC, aiming to improve diagnostics and sequencing capacity in the region. The EU has also committed €9.4 million in additional funding to expand mpox diagnostics, and €1 million in humanitarian aid to support care, prevention, and risk communication in the DRC. Furthermore, €200,000 has been allocated to assist the Burundi Red Cross in preparing for and responding to the epidemic in the country. 

This vaccine delivery comes in response to the World Health Organization's August 14th declaration of the mpox outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). With the support of HERA and Team Europe, the DRC and other affected countries are better equipped to manage the ongoing crisis.

More information:

• Press release: First delivery of mpox vaccine doses from the Commission arrive today in the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Factsheet – EU response to mpox outbreak
• Procurement of vaccines for Africa mpox outbreak 
• Team Europe Initiative on manufacturing and access to vaccines, medicines and health technologies in Africa - European Commission
• Union Civil Protection Mechanism 
• Global Gateway