The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has partnered with U.S.-based Tonix Pharmaceuticals to advance the development and clinical testing of a new mpox vaccine, TNX-801. This collaboration marks a significant step in global efforts to combat the zoonotic disease, which has seen a sharp rise in cases worldwide, particularly across Africa.
The partnership will see Tonix Pharmaceuticals, headquartered in New Jersey, work with KEMRI to conduct a Phase I clinical trial in Kenya. The study will evaluate the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of TNX-801, an investigational single-dose vaccine developed to combat mpox. This trial, the first of its kind in Kenya, is expected to provide critical data on the vaccine’s viability for broader use in Africa and globally.
Dr. Seth Lederman, CEO of Tonix Pharmaceuticals, highlighted the international significance of the initiative. “With the continued spread of mpox and growing global health concerns, a single-dose vaccine like TNX-801 could play a vital role in managing the disease. We aim to support the World Health Organization’s (WHO) vision for mpox prevention and contribute to halting its spread worldwide,” said Lederman.
KEMRI’s Director General, Dr. Elijah Songok, described the partnership as a milestone in Kenya’s contribution to global health solutions. “This collaboration underscores KEMRI’s commitment to addressing emerging health threats and finding effective interventions for communities most at risk. The clinical trial aligns with our mission to advance accessible health solutions for all,” said Songok.
The initiative comes amid a sharp increase in mpox cases across Africa. According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), mpox cases surged by 545% in 2024, with the Central African region accounting for 85.8% of infections and 99.4% of related deaths. The WHO has declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, spurring urgent global action for prevention and treatment.
Beyond Africa, Clade Ib mpox cases have emerged in non-endemic regions, including Sweden, Thailand, Singapore, and India, signalling the virus’s ability to cross borders. If successful, TNX-801 could become a critical tool in preventing mpox outbreaks, particularly among vulnerable groups such as immunocompromised individuals and communities in high-risk areas.
KEMRI and Tonix Pharmaceuticals hope the Kenya-based trial will lay the groundwork for further research and vaccine deployment in affected regions. The partnership reflects a broader Africa-centred approach to strengthening healthcare responses, showcasing the continent’s leadership in addressing global health challenges while benefiting populations worldwide.
Article by RB Reporter
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