GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, issued a statement endorsing the urgent call to action by Dr. Rosamund Lewis and colleagues in their recently published PLOS Medicine article, which argues that the mpox epidemic is not over and requires sustained global attention. The article emphasizes that mpox transmission, morbidity, and mortality continue, particularly in Africa, driven by evolving viral clades, constrained vaccine supply, and persistent inequities in access to countermeasures.
David Dodd, Chairman and CEO of GeoVax, stressed that complacency would be a costly mistake. “The data are clear: mpox continues to circulate, evolve, and disproportionately impact vulnerable populations,” Dodd said. “A durable response requires sustained investment, diversified vaccine supply, and readiness that extends beyond reactive surge manufacturing.”
GeoVax’s GEO-MVA, a Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA)-based vaccine for mpox and smallpox, is being developed to address the structural vulnerabilities highlighted in the PLOS Medicine analysis, notably the world’s dependence on a single manufacturer for licensed MVA vaccine supply. Key program milestones include completion of clinical material, a planned Phase 3 immunobridging study in Q4 2026 aligned with European Medicines Agency guidance, and anticipated results in Q2 2027 to support regulatory submissions and procurement discussions.
“With a clearly defined regulatory pathway ahead, GEO-MVA is transitioning from preparedness planning to execution,” Dodd added. “This program is designed not only to meet regulatory requirements, but to support long-term global readiness by expanding MVA vaccine capacity in a market that remains chronically supply-constrained.”
The PLOS Medicine authors note that mpox will continue to pose a global risk due to zoonotic spillover, viral evolution, and efficient transmission networks, especially in under-resourced health systems. GeoVax believes these realities underscore the need for redundant, geographically diversified MVA manufacturing capacity. “As the mpox response evolves from emergency reaction to long-term control, vaccine supply resilience becomes a cornerstone of preparedness,” Dodd said.
GeoVax is also developing GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine, and Gedeptin®, an oncolytic therapy for head and neck cancers. The company holds worldwide rights for its technologies and product candidates. More information is available at www.geovax.com.
This announcement comes as the global health community grapples with persistent mpox transmission and the need for equitable vaccine access. GeoVax’s endorsement of the call to action and its progress on GEO-MVA highlight the importance of sustained investment and supply diversification to prevent future outbreaks.
