Germany Considers Mpox Vaccine Donations Amid Monitoring Efforts

The German government is assessing whether to donate its national stock of the mpox vaccine. Currently, 117,000 doses are held by the German army. Though international aid efforts are progressing, Germany has reported no cases of the concerning clade 1 strain. Close monitoring continues without identified increased risks.

The German government is considering the donation of available mpox vaccine doses, a health ministry report revealed on Friday. This move comes as officials continue to review their national stockpile amidst ongoing monitoring of the viral situation.

The health ministry confirmed that the remaining Jynneos vaccine doses have been handed over to the defence ministry and are being held by the German army. Approximately 117,000 doses procured in 2022 are in storage, according to a ministry spokesperson.

International aid efforts, including potential donations from the European Commission, are underway, though specific details still need to be worked out locally and at the European level. Germany has reported no cases of the clade 1 strain of mpox, which has drawn global attention for its easy transmission via close contact. The ministry believes current vaccines could effectively manage potential outbreaks and is closely monitoring the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)