DOH seeks smallpox vaccines from WHO for mpox protection

The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday announced its intention to seek access from the World Health Organization (WHO) for smallpox vaccines to protect against mpox.

Based on scientific findings, DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo stated that smallpox vaccines can provide cross-protection against mpox.

Currently, there is no supply of this vaccine in the Philippines as it is prioritized for African countries experiencing an upsurge in mpox cases.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa clarified that while the DOH has requested 2,000 doses from WHO and ASEAN, these vaccines will be distributed first to Africa due to a more severe outbreak there.

Anyone can contract mpox through close contact with an infected person or contaminated materials, and the DOH advises using soap and water to kill the virus.

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has directed agencies to monitor vulnerable areas and individuals for mpox cases; there are currently ten confirmed cases in the Philippines.

The WHO aims to fund a Global Mpox Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan (SPRP) requiring at least USD135 million over six months to stop the outbreak.