Wasted Shots: How U. S. Missed the Mark on Mpox Vaccines for Africa

Almost 800,000 doses of mpox vaccine, promised to African nations, are now useless.

The Promise and the Reality

• Promised: Over 1 million doses by the Biden team
• Sent: Only 91,000 doses so far
• Remaining Usable Doses: 220,000 (with enough time before expiration)

The Bigger Picture

• Global Promise: U.S., Europe, and Japan together promised 5 million doses
• Expiration Issue: The rest will expire in the next six months

Why Did This Happen?

• Foreign Aid Cuts: Under the Trump administration
• USAID Removal: Which helped with aid programs
• Timing Issue: Vaccines need to be sent at least six months before expiration

The Consequences

• Mpox Spread: A serious disease spreading in Africa
• Missed Opportunity: Vaccines could have helped stop the spread
• Importance of Timely Action: Delays render aid ineffective