Mpox Vaccine Procurement Secured as Cases Rise in Europe
Stockholm, Sweden – Sweden is joining an EU joint procurement agreement to ensure a stable supply of mpox vaccine as cases of the virus are reported to be increasing across Europe, the public Health Agency of Sweden (FHM) announced today. The move aims to proactively secure access to vaccinations, particularly for at-risk populations.
While mpox,formerly known as monkeypox,is not currently widespread in Sweden,health officials are responding to a broader European trend and reinforcing preventative measures. “It is a measure to secure the availability of this vaccine,” explained Klara Sondén, assistant state epidemiologist at FHM. “Everyone who needs the mpox vaccine today has the chance to get it, but access is now secured with this structured procedure.”
FHM has recommended mpox vaccination since 2022,and approximately 4,000 individuals have already received the vaccine. Officials anticipate mpox will continue to circulate and are considering the potential need for booster doses, pending further research through clinical trials.
Currently, the vaccine is prioritized for men who have sex with men in high-risk sexual networks, individuals traveling to areas with high exposure, and laboratory personnel working directly with the virus.
Mpox is a notifiable disease, meaning all diagnosed cases are reported to authorities. The virus primarily spreads through sexual contact or close physical contact with an infected person, manifesting in symptoms like blisters, sores, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. while the disease typically resolves within a few weeks, some individuals may experience severe illness. The EU procurement agreement will help ensure Sweden is prepared to respond effectively should cases increase.
