Diseases
EMA: Monkeypox vaccine can be used more efficiently
Empty vials of the Bavarian Nordic (Imvanex / Jynneos) vaccine against monkeypox. photo
© Sven Hoppe/dpa
The monkeypox virus is spreading rapidly around the world, but the necessary vaccines are scarce. The EU medicines authority is now pointing out ways to make better use of the existing preparations.
The EU medicines agency EMA has published a recommendation for more efficient use of the monkeypox vaccine Imvanex. Accordingly, one fifth of the conventional dose is sufficient if the preparation is not injected subcutaneously – i.e. under the skin – but into the skin. This could help to make better use of the currently very limited supply of the preparation.
As evidence, the authority refers to a study from 2015 on around 500 participants who were injected with the preparation either under or into the skin. “People who received the vaccine intradermally received one-fifth (0.1 ml) of the subcutaneous dose (0.5 ml), but had similar antibody levels to those who received the higher subcutaneous dose,” the EMA said on Friday .
With intradermal administration, however, there is a higher risk of local reactions such as reddening, thickening or discoloration of the skin. Only healthcare professionals who have experience with this type of injection should administer the vaccine in this way.
Better access allowed
EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides described the recommendation as extremely important. “This will ensure better access to vaccination for vulnerable citizens and healthcare workers.”
The EU Commission approved Imvanex for monkeypox at the end of July, following an EMA recommendation. The Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) in Germany recommends vaccination against monkeypox for certain risk groups and people who have had close contact with infected people. She sees an increased risk of infection above all in men who have same-sex sexual contacts with changing partners.
Study in “Vaccine” (2015) Communication EMA