Mpox Vaccine Shortage: WHO Sounds Alarm, Urges Global Action

Mpox Vaccine Shortage: WHO Official Urges Personal Responsibility and Global Cooperation Ghana, June 11, 2025 - A World Health Organization (WHO) official has highlighted a critical shortage of mpox vaccines globally. Dr. Sally-Ann Ohene, WHO Country Preparedness & IHR (CPI) Officer, emphasized the need for both personal responsibility and international collaboration to combat the spread of the virus. "Vaccines for mpox are in very short supply," Dr. Ohene stated in a recent interview. "They are not readily available." She stressed the importance of individual actions, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals displaying rashes. The shortage underscores the need for countries with access to vaccines to share them with those in need. Dr. Ohene highlighted the ongoing efforts to facilitate bilateral engagement between nations to address this disparity. She also noted the importance of reviving hand hygiene practices, a habit many have let slip since the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO official's message serves as a crucial reminder of the collective responsibility in managing public health crises. The combination of individual preventative measures and international cooperation is vital to mitigate the impact of mpox and similar outbreaks in the future.