Global Interest in Russia's Orthopoxvac Vaccine Surges Amid Mpox Outbreak

Several countries in Africa and the former Soviet Union are looking to acquire Russia's Orthopoxvac vaccine, developed by the Vektor laboratory, following a WHO-declared mpox outbreak. Despite interest, trial results for the vaccine remain unpublished and it lacks regulatory approval outside Russia.

Countries in Africa and the ex-Soviet bloc are eyeing Russia's Orthopoxvac vaccine amidst a global mpox outbreak, Reuters reports. Russia's consumer and health watchdog disclosed the interest without naming specific countries.

Orthopoxvac, crafted by Vektor laboratory in Siberia, gained approval from Russia's health ministry in 2022. However, the trial results proving its safety and effectiveness haven't been shared publicly. The vaccine also lacks international regulatory approval.

The WHO's global emergency declaration for mpox, originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has spurred this interest. Meanwhile, various Russian and former Soviet states remain non-committal, and Western countries have pledged alternative solutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)