Pharma Profits Surge Amid Renewed Mpox Panic: Are We Repeating History?

Bavarian Nordic’s stock surged after the WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency due to outbreaks in the DRC and neighboring countries. The declaration could lead to increased funding and vaccine distribution despite criticisms of the WHO’s process. Bavarian Nordic is one of the few companies with an approved mpox vaccine, Jynneos, although there are concerns about side effects and the effectiveness of mass vaccination. The WHO’s decision follows a previous mpox emergency declaration in 2022, which was later withdrawn.

Editor’s Note: Once again, we witness a scenario where a pharmaceutical company stands to profit from a health crisis. It’s worth noting that a similar declaration was made in 2022, only to be retracted later. This inconsistency begs the question: are we on the verge of repeating history? The hasty declaration in 2022 led to panic and a sense of betrayal when the threat was downplayed. Remember that the echoes of the COVID-19 pandemic are still fresh; the world is still grappling with its aftermath. [See also: WHO Declares Mpox Outbreak in Africa a Global Health Emergency, Malaysia and Indonesia Heighten Mpox Measures Amid Global Health Alert]

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