Mpox outbreak: How cold chain logistics are crucial in the global response

The world is witnessing the rapid spread of a dangerous strain of mpox, known as Clade 1, across two continents. This spread has highlighted the critical need for effective vaccine distribution, especially to some of the most challenging locations. Cold chain logistics is a vital component in getting vaccines to those most in need quickly, efficiently and in optimal condition.

The growing global threat of mpox

The detection of mpox Clade 1 in Europe, following its spread in multiple African countries, has raised alarms across the global health community. With over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo alone[1], the need for action is clear. The World Health Organization has declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern, underscoring the need for swift and coordinated action.

For those of us in the cold chain logistics sector, this is a familiar challenge, but one that demands heightened vigilance and innovation. The need to transport temperature-sensitive vaccines to remote or under-resourced areas is more pressing than ever, and the margin for error is razor-thin.

Meeting the demand with precision and innovation

Maintaining the integrity of vaccine shipments through the cold chain is non-negotiable. We’re dealing with highly sensitive materials that must remain within strict temperature ranges to maintain their efficacy upon arrival. Any deviation could compromise the entire mission.

This is where Envirotainer’s advanced cold chain solutions make a critical difference. Innovations in cold chain technology, such as robust and reliable solutions, real-time monitoring and AI-driven analytics, are making it possible to track and manage vaccine conditions more precisely than ever before. These technologies allow for quick adjustments in response to any issues that arise during transit, keeping vaccines in the same condition as when they left the production facility.

But finding the right solution to protect these vital vaccines is only one piece of the puzzle. To truly enable global access to pharmaceuticals, manufacturers must also be confident that their chosen solutions are readily available when and where needed. This requires a strong global network and a sufficient, well-maintained fleet of temperature-controlled units to meet demand and support worldwide distribution, particularly in remote regions.

Envirotainer: Leading the way in cold chain solutions

At Envirotainer, we understand the complexities involved in global vaccine distribution. We bring decades of experience and a track record of innovation to the table, enabling us to support vaccine manufacturers and global health organisations in their fight against this outbreak.

Our solutions are designed to perform reliably in the most challenging scenarios, even in the face of unexpected delays or extreme outside conditions. With real-time tracking capabilities, our containers offer peace of mind, allowing healthcare providers to focus on what matters most: delivering care to those in need.

Safeguarding global health together

As the mpox virus continues to spread, the partnership between vaccine manufacturers and cold chain providers becomes more crucial than ever. Together, we can deliver vaccines safely and effectively, from the lab to the most remote areas of the world.

The detection of mpox Clade 1 across two continents is a stark reminder that health threats can emerge and escalate rapidly. As we continue to face these global challenges, having the right systems and partnerships in place is essential. Envirotainer is committed to being at the forefront of this effort, providing the expertise and innovation needed to support global health initiatives.

Contact us today to learn more about how Envirotainer’s solutions can help you navigate the complexities of cold chain logistics.

[1] https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/countries-with-confirmed-cases-new-mpox-variant-2024-08-16/