Waning Immunity Raises Concerns
A new study from Harvard Medical School suggests that immunity from the mpox vaccine may decrease significantly within six to twelve months after immunization. Researchers analyzed samples from 45 people either vaccinated or infected with mpox in 2022 and found that antibody levels dropped, indicating the need for potential booster shots.
Two Doses Initially Provide Better Protection
The study found that two doses of the mpox vaccine, administered four weeks apart, offered better protection in the first few months compared to a single dose. However, after a year, the immune response in those who received two doses was similar to the peak response of those with just one dose, which provided limited protection.
Booster Shots May Be Necessary
Health experts not involved in the study are calling for booster shots to maintain immunity, especially for those vaccinated during the 2022 outbreak. Jonas Albarnaz, a virologist at the Pirbright Institute, emphasized that this study indicates a possible need for boosters to preserve vaccine effectiveness.
France Leads with Booster Recommendations
France has already taken proactive measures by recommending booster shots for high-risk groups, such as gay and bisexual men, sex workers, and transgender individuals with multiple sexual partners. This move highlights the importance of maintaining immunity in vulnerable populations to prevent future outbreaks.
Antibodies Decline Doesn’t Mean Total Loss of Protection
Despite the drop in antibody levels, some experts argue that this doesn’t necessarily mean people are less protected. Jake Dunning from the University of Oxford noted that even with fewer antibodies, the immune system may still be “primed” to recognize and fight off mpox quickly, thanks to the vaccine.
Larger Studies Needed for Better Understanding
To gain a clearer picture of vaccine effectiveness over time, researchers are calling for larger studies that include high-risk groups such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with HIV. These studies will help determine how well the vaccine performs in different populations and whether booster doses are necessary for all.
Mpox Outbreaks Under Control, but New Threats Emerge
Thanks to public health efforts and vaccination campaigns, mpox outbreaks in Europe and North America have remained under control since 2022. However, a new strain of the virus has emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), raising fresh concerns as cases spread across the African continent.
Call to Action for New Interventions
With more than 26,500 mpox cases and 720 deaths reported in Africa this year, health experts are urging for stronger interventions. The recent failure of an antiviral drug in treating mpox in the DRC highlights the need for continued research and development of vaccines and treatments to combat the evolving virus.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Business Standard
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