Sergei Shchelkunov, chief researcher of the center’s genomic research department, has announced that Russia is planning to launch the production of the “OrthopoxVac” anti-smallpox vaccine. This vaccine, developed at the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, is unparalleled anywhere in the world. Additionally, he added that the vaccine was created using a weakened form of the live vaccinia virus, and its main purpose is safeguarding against both smallpox and other orthopoxvirus infections.
He mentioned that this vaccine is in its fourth generation and utilizes a modified form of the virus. Through advanced genomic engineering techniques, six genes were purposely removed. Preclinical and clinical trials have shown the vaccine to be safe and effective. It was also registered in November 2022.
