An important step in the worldwide fight against the deadly Nipah virus will be taken when Japanese researchers start the first human clinical trial of a vaccine candidate. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the vaccine, which was created by a team at the University of Tokyo, will begin Phase 1 testing in Belgium in April.
The experimental vaccination incorporates genetic material from the Nipah virus into a modified measles virus. After being given, it causes the body to create antigens similar to Nipah, which could help avoid infection by inducing an immune response. The strategy expands upon the well-established safety profile of measles vaccines, which are used extensively across the globe.
Hamster trials have previously shown the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Sixty healthy human volunteers will participate in the next Phase 1 experiment to evaluate safety.
The development coincides with a resurgence of worries about Nipah virus infections following India’s January disclosure of two confirmed cases in West Bengal. With a 40% to 75% fatality rate, there is presently no approved vaccination or targeted treatment for the virus.
Separately, in December, Oxford University researchers started Phase 2 trials of a potential Nipah vaccine in Bangladesh with about 300 people.
Because of its high fatality rate and potential for pandemic, Nipah has been designated as a priority illness by the World Health Organization.
Source – NDTV
