Moderna’s mRNA vaccine shows promise against mpox in macaques

A recent peer-reviewed study published in the journal Cell highlights the effectiveness of Moderna's experimental mRNA vaccine, mRNA-1769, against mpox in macaques. This study marks a significant advancement as it is the first direct comparison between an mRNA vaccine and the licensed Bavarian Nordic's modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccine, known as Jynneos. The results showed that all vaccinated macaques survived, while five out of six unvaccinated controls succumbed to the disease. The mRNA-1769 vaccine not only provided protection against lethal infections but also significantly reduced the severity of the disease. Vaccinated macaques exhibited a maximum of 54 mpox lesions, compared to 607 in the Bavarian group and 1,448 in the unvaccinated group. Additionally, the duration of the disease was shortened by over 10 days in the mRNA group, indicating a more effective immune response. Researchers noted that macaques receiving the mRNA vaccine had higher antibody levels in their blood, suggesting a robust immune reaction. Furthermore, lower viral loads were detected in both blood and throat swabs of the mRNA group, implying potential effectiveness in reducing virus transmission. The findings are particularly relevant given the ongoing mpox outbreak, which has raised public health concerns. The study suggests that mRNA technology could offer a safer alternative to existing vaccines, potentially aiding in controlling the spread of mpox and other Orthopoxvirus threats in the future.