Bavarian Nordic extends UK vaccine partnership with new four-year supply deal
Bavarian Nordic originally developed the vaccine in collaboration with the US Government as a smallpox vaccine suitable for a broad population, including people with weakened immune systems who cannot receive traditional replicating smallpox vaccines.
UK—Bavarian Nordic has secured a four-year contract from the UK government to supply its MVA-BN vaccine for mpox and smallpox prevention, strengthening the country’s preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) awarded the agreement, which provides for scheduled vaccine deliveries throughout the contract period.
It also includes optional flexibility provisions, although the company has not disclosed further details.
Vaccine supply and approved indications
MVA-BN is a non-replicating vaccine approved for mpox and smallpox prevention in several markets, including the US, Singapore, Switzerland, Mexico, the EU/EEA, Canada and the UK.
It is marketed under different brand names depending on the country: Jynneos in the US and Mexico, Imvamune in Canada, and Imvanex in the EU/EEA and UK.
Bavarian Nordic originally developed the vaccine in collaboration with the US Government as a smallpox vaccine suitable for a broad population, including people with weakened immune systems who cannot receive traditional replicating smallpox vaccines.
The vaccine is indicated for people aged two years and older who are considered at risk of smallpox or mpox infection.
Its non-replicating design makes it an important option for immunisation programmes targeting populations that may not be eligible for certain conventional vaccines.
Bavarian Nordic’s Senior Vice-President of Public Preparedness, Hitesh Sahni, said maintaining sustainable vaccine stockpiles and rapid response capabilities remains essential to protecting public health and saving lives.
He added that the company was proud that its vaccine continued to contribute to the UK’s public health preparedness strategy.
Strengthening long-term preparedness
The latest agreement builds on previous vaccine procurements by the UK Government and extends an established relationship between Bavarian Nordic and British health authorities.
Earlier purchases focused on maintaining national vaccine supplies, supporting eligible populations and ensuring availability during outbreaks.
The contract reflects the continued role of advance procurement agreements in infectious disease preparedness.
By securing supplies over several years, governments can support vaccine availability and strengthen their ability to respond to changing epidemiological conditions.
For manufacturers, such agreements also provide greater visibility over public-sector demand and help sustain production capacity.
Bavarian Nordic has also pursued partnerships to expand its vaccine manufacturing and commercial capabilities.
In March 2026, the company signed a manufacturing agreement with India’s Serum Institute of India for its chikungunya vaccine, CHIKV VLP, extending their strategic collaboration.
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