Cholera Vaccine Supply Rises: Mozambique Restarts Preventive Campaigns

For the first time in over three years, a critical turning point has been reached in the global fight against cholera. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO) announced today the resumption of preventive cholera vaccination campaigns, made possible by a significant increase in global vaccine supply.

A Surge in Cases and a Response

The resumption of preventive efforts comes after a halt in 2022, triggered by a global surge in cholera cases that overwhelmed existing vaccine stocks. Mozambique is leading the way as the first country to restart preventive vaccination. This campaign is particularly vital as it unfolds amidst an ongoing cholera outbreak and in the wake of devastating floods that impacted over 700,000 people, disrupting health systems and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.

The Road to Recovery

Annual global supply of the oral cholera vaccine (OCV) has nearly doubled, rising from 35 million doses in 2022 to almost 70 million doses in 2025. This increase is the result of sustained efforts by global agencies, manufacturers, and partners. The doses are being financed by Gavi and delivered by UNICEF.

Did You Know? EUBiologics is currently the only manufacturer producing cholera vaccines at the scale needed for mass vaccination campaigns.

A first allocation of 20 million doses is being deployed, with 3.6 million doses going to Mozambique, 6.1 million to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and 10.3 million planned for delivery to Bangladesh. These countries were selected based on criteria established by the Global Task Force for Cholera Control (GTFCC), ensuring equitable and transparent distribution.

Looking Ahead

While the increased vaccine supply is a major step forward, challenges remain. The one-dose strategy will continue to be the standard for outbreak responses, with two doses considered on a case-by-case basis. Long-term success depends on sustained investment in infrastructure, including safe water, sanitation, and hygiene, alongside robust disease surveillance and community engagement.

Expert Insight: The resumption of preventive vaccination represents a shift from simply reacting to cholera outbreaks to proactively protecting vulnerable populations. However, lasting progress requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying factors contributing to the spread of this disease.

Cholera, spread through contaminated food and water, causes severe diarrhea and dehydration and can be fatal if untreated. More than 600,000 cases and nearly 7,600 deaths were reported to the WHO from 33 countries last year, though these numbers are likely underestimates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the pause in preventive cholera vaccination?

Preventive vaccination was halted in 2022 due to a global surge in cholera cases that led to shortages of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) stocks.

Which countries are receiving the first doses of the resumed vaccination campaign?

Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Bangladesh are the first countries receiving doses, with 3.6 million, 6.1 million, and 10.3 million doses allocated respectively.

How effective is the oral cholera vaccine?

One dose of OCV provides short-term protection for at least 6 months, while two doses provide protection against infection for up to 3 years.

As vaccine supply improves, what role will long-term infrastructure play in preventing future cholera outbreaks?