Comparative Study of World Health Organization Recommended Smallpox Vaccine to Prevent Monkeypox
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35451/0ejez036Keywords:
ACAM2000, LC16, MVA-BN, Monkeypox, VaccineAbstract
Background: Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV) from the Orthopoxvirus genus and has shown a global increase in cases since 2022. Currently, no specific vaccine is available; however, smallpox vaccines provide cross-protection and are recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for prevention. Objective: This review aims to compare the efficacy and safety of WHO-recommended smallpox vaccines (MVA-BN, LC16m8, and ACAM2000) in preventing monkeypox. Methods: This literature review searched Google Scholar and Publish or Perish with the keywords “monkeypox vaccine”, “MVA-BN,” “LC16,” “ACAM2000,” “efficacy,” and “safety.” Articles published between 2015 and 2025 were included. Of 155 identified records, 9 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Results: All vaccines were effective in preventing monkeypox through humoral and cellular immune responses. MVA-BN showed the highest efficacy and best safety profile, while LC16m8 provided long-term protection with mild adverse effects. ACAM2000 was effective but associated with mild cardiovascular adverse events, limiting its use in certain populations. Conclusion: WHO-recommended smallpox vaccines are effective and relatively safe, with MVA-BN considered the most optimal option. Further development of monkeypox-specific vaccines using mRNA and DNA technologies is needed, as these platforms allow more specific antigen targeting and may enhance immune response and safety.
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