Cholera Vaccine Supply Rebounds, Enabling Resumption of Preventative Campaigns
A significant increase in global cholera vaccine supply is now sufficient to allow the resumption of life-saving preventative campaigns for the first time in over three years, according to a joint announcement from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, adn the World Health Organization (WHO). This progress marks a critical turning point in the fight against the deadly diarrheal disease, which has seen a resurgence in recent years.
Mozambique Leads the Way in Renewed Vaccination Efforts
Mozambique is the first nation to restart preventative cholera vaccination, following a suspension in 2022 triggered by a global surge in cases that depleted existing oral cholera vaccine (OCV) stocks. The campaign is launching amidst an ongoing cholera outbreak and in the wake of devastating floods that impacted over 700,000 people, displacing communities and disrupting essential health and water infrastructure – conditions that exacerbate the risk of waterborne diseases.
From Reaction to Prevention: A Shift in Strategy
“Global vaccine shortages forced us into a cycle of reacting to cholera outbreaks rather of preventing them,” stated a senior official from the WHO. “We are now in a stronger position to break that cycle.” The official also expressed gratitude to EUBiologics, currently the sole manufacturer producing cholera vaccines at the scale required for mass vaccination, and urged other manufacturers to enter the field. “These vaccines will save lives,” they emphasized.
initial Dose Allocation Targets High-Risk Regions
An initial allocation of 20 million doses is being deployed for preventative campaigns,with a focus on countries experiencing significant outbreaks or facing heightened risk. To date, 3.6 million doses have been delivered to Mozambique, 6.1 million to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and 10.3 million doses are planned for delivery to Bangladesh.
Supply Doubling: A Collaborative Achievement
Sustained efforts by global agencies, manufacturers, and partners have resulted in a doubling of the annual global OCV supply, increasing from 35 million doses in 2022 to nearly 70 million doses projected for 2025.These doses are being financed by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and procured and delivered by UNICEF.
A Global Public Good: Ensuring Lasting Access
“The multi-year surge in cholera cases and resulting unprecedented demand for vaccines were stark reminders that sustainable, accessible vaccine supply is a global public good – and the world cannot afford complacency,” said Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. She acknowledged the crucial collaboration with partners and manufacturers, particularly EUBiologics, and highlighted the vital role of Gavi’s donors in financing the global OCV stockpile and life-saving campaigns.
Protecting Children and Strengthening Public health
“for the first time in years, this increase in vaccines will allow us to better prevent large-scale cholera emergencies,” noted Catherine russell, UNICEF Executive Director. “Resuming preventative cholera vaccination will protect children and help stop this highly contagious disease.”
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