But if there are approximately 50 mutations in the 2022 variant, how can anyone assume that the existing vaccines will still be effective? Are the genetic mutations in areas that the vaccines traditionally target? If they have evolved to evade the human immune system then is it not plausible they can avoid the vaccines too?
But if there are approximately 50 mutations in the 2022 variant, how can anyone assume that the existing vaccines will still be effective? Are the genetic mutations in areas that the vaccines traditionally target? If they have evolved to evade the human immune system then is it not plausible they can avoid the vaccines too?
Keep in mind that the vaccines were never actually intended for monkeypox. It's just characteristic of the relative closeness of orthopoxviruses that a smallpox vaccine has an efficacy profile against monkeypox.
And neither ACAM2000 nor Jynneos are routinely administered even in Africa. So even prior to this current outbreak there's a whole lot of uncertainty about their actual efficacy against monkeypox.
The 85% efficacy figure is really more of a "best guess" given that the actual target pathogen, smallpox, is no longer endemic anywhere in the world.
But if there are approximately 50 mutations in the 2022 variant, how can anyone assume that the existing vaccines will still be effective? Are the genetic mutations in areas that the vaccines traditionally target? If they have evolved to evade the human immune system then is it not plausible they can avoid the vaccines too?
Keep in mind that the vaccines were never actually intended for monkeypox. It's just characteristic of the relative closeness of orthopoxviruses that a smallpox vaccine has an efficacy profile against monkeypox.
And neither ACAM2000 nor Jynneos are routinely administered even in Africa. So even prior to this current outbreak there's a whole lot of uncertainty about their actual efficacy against monkeypox.
The 85% efficacy figure is really more of a "best guess" given that the actual target pathogen, smallpox, is no longer endemic anywhere in the world.
Excellent, thank you for explaining