What is "imvanex"

Imvanex (Modified Vaccinia Ankara – Bavarian Nordic) is a non-replicating smallpox vaccine developed and manufactured by Bavarian Nordic. It was approved in the European Union for active immunization against smallpox disease in adults in 2013, and has also been approved in Canada where it is marketed as Imvamune. On its path for the approval in the U.S., Imvamune undergoes additional series of evaluation studies.

Imvanex contains a modified form of the vaccinia virus, Modified vaccinia Ankara, which does not replicate in human cells and hence does not cause the serious side effects that are seen with replicating smallpox vaccines. These replicating vaccines use different strains of the vaccinia virus, which all replicate in humans, and are not recommended for persons with immune deficiencies and exfoliative skin disorders such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. Vaccines containing vaccinia viruses were used effectively in the campaign to eradicate smallpox. Because of similarities between vaccinia and the smallpox virus, the antibodies produced against vaccinia have been shown to protect against smallpox. In contrast to replicating smallpox vaccines, which are applied by scarification using a bifurcated needle, Imvanex is administered by injection via the subcutaneous route.