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01 / 05
Flu Jab: Single-Shot Vaccine Could Stop Future Pandemic

The Times | Vaccination

Flu Jab: Single-Shot Vaccine Could Stop Future Pandemic

“A single-shot vaccine against flu that would provide a lifetime of protection even against future mutations could be available in ‘five years or less’, scientists have said after making a breakthrough.

The researchers created a vaccine to target a 106-year-old strain of Spanish influenza that killed millions in 1918 and 1919 after the First World War.

They found that the vaccine was also effective against a strain of bird flu from the 21st century, providing protection despite the virus having undergone almost a century of evolution.”

From The Times.

World Health Organization | Vaccination

Cross-Border Polio Vaccination Reaches 6.5 Million Children

“Between October 3 and 6, 2024, more than 6.5 million children were vaccinated in a successful synchronized polio campaign between Kenya and Uganda. This cross-border achievement began with a coordinated launch in Bungoma District, Kenya, and Mbale District, Uganda. 

Both countries have set an exemplary standard in their recent synchronized polio vaccination campaign conducted this week, which focused on high-risk cross-border regions. By conducting these campaigns on the same dates, sharing real-time information, both countries ensured that children under five in these vulnerable areas were reached effectively, reducing the chance of cross-border virus transmission.”

From World Health Organization.

The Guardian | Vaccination

Doctors Trial mRNA Vaccine Against Vomiting Bug Norovirus

“Doctors have begun trialling the world’s first mRNA vaccine against the vomiting bug norovirus in the hope the jab could bring huge health and economic benefits.

Norovirus causes sickness and diarrhoea and can spread very rapidly between people who are in close contact, with outbreaks often occurring in hospitals, care homes, schools and nurseries.

While most people recover within two to three days, the virus can be serious, particularly for the very young, elderly or people with a weakened immune system…

Called Nova 301, the phase 3 clinical trial is to run for two years, and will enrol 25,000 adults – with a focus on those over the age of 60 – from countries including Japan, Canada and Australia.”

From The Guardian.

STAT | Vaccination

FDA Approves First At-Home Flu Vaccine in US, a Nasal Spray

“The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved AstraZeneca’s bid to allow its nasal spray influenza vaccine, FluMist, to be sold for home administration. 

Starting in fall 2025, people who want to order the vaccine to give it to themselves or their children at home will be able to do so. 

FluMist is the only flu vaccine administered by nasal spray, not injection. It is licensed for individuals between the ages of 2 and 49. This FDA approval makes it the only flu vaccine in the United States that can be administered at home and that does not need to be administered by a health care professional.”

From STAT.