China’s Wuhan Institute of Biological Products, a research affiliate of Sinopharm’s China National Biotech Group (CNBG), has announced that it has successfully isolated monkeypox strains from clinical samples. This development marks a significant step in the global effort to combat the infectious disease. Research has now begun on developing vaccines and therapeutics for monkeypox.
Background and Previous Contributions
The Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and CNBG were previously responsible for China’s second successfully developed inactivated virus vaccine against COVID-19. This experience and expertise are expected to play a crucial role in the development of new treatments and vaccines for monkeypox.
Global Context and Response
The outbreak of monkeypox, which began to be recorded from May this year in Europe and the United States, was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO) in July. To date, a total of 75,141 monkeypox cases have been recorded across 100 countries, according to WHO data. Mainland China reported its first case, a traveler returning from Germany, in September. In response, travelers entering China are now being tested for both COVID-19 and monkeypox during the country’s mandatory 10-day quarantine period, although monkeypox has an incubation period of up to 21 days.
Future Outlook
The isolation of monkeypox strains by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products underscores Sinopharm’s commitment to addressing emerging global health challenges. The initiation of vaccine and therapeutic research is a critical step in preparing for potential outbreaks and ensuring public health safety.-Fineline Info & Tech
