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Norway Today

Norwegian news in English

Saturday, November 23, 2024

Norway Urged to Boost Mpox Vaccine Stockpile

Published: 2024-10-22

In light of recent mpox cases in Oslo, infectious disease expert Gunnar Hasle has called for Norway to purchase two million doses of the Imvanex vaccine.

Hasle, concerned about the potential for a global mpox pandemic, argues that Norway should prepare by securing vaccines not only for domestic use but also for donation to affected regions in Africa.

Despite the World Health Organization declaring mpox a public health crisis, Norwegian health authorities, led by Preben Aavitsland, believe they have sufficient vaccine reserves for the current threat level.

Aavitsland emphasizes the importance of addressing the outbreak in Africa rather than stockpiling in wealthy countries.

Meanwhile, Oslo has confirmed a new mpox case, linked to the 2022 global outbreak, and is offering vaccines to high-risk groups.

The situation highlights ongoing debates about preparedness and equitable vaccine distribution.