Serum Institute of India Develops Monkeypox Vaccine Amid Global Health Emergency

Serum Institute of India is developing a vaccine for Monkeypox, expecting progress within a year. The World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a public health emergency following increased cases in Africa. India has reported around 30 cases since 2022, with intensified scrutiny at entry points and designated hospitals for treatment.

Serum Institute of India on Tuesday announced its efforts to develop a vaccine for Monkeypox, with positive outcomes anticipated within a year.

The World Health Organisation declared the Mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern on August 14 after a sudden surge in cases across Africa.

In India, approximately 30 Mpox cases have been identified since 2022, with the latest recorded in March 2024.

Serum Institute of India CEO Adar Poonawalla stated that the institute is working on a vaccine to address the global health emergency and protect millions at risk.

With ongoing progress, the Pune-based vaccine developer hopes to share more updates and positive news within a year, Poonawalla added.

The Union Health Ministry has issued advisories to increase scrutiny at airports and seaports, particularly at international entry points.

Three hospitals—Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital, and Lady Hardinge Medical College—have been designated as nodal centres for the isolation, management, and treatment of patients.