The University of Oxford in the UK has commenced human trials for a vaccine aimed at combating the Nipah virus. The university announced on Thursday that a vaccine trial targeting the deadly Nipah virus, notorious for causing brain inflammation, has begun. This virus has had outbreaks in India's Kerala state and various parts of Asia.
What is the Nipah Virus?
The Nipah Virus (NiV) is a zoonotic disease, transmitting from animals to humans. It can spread from bats and pigs to humans, leading to symptoms such as fever, vomiting, respiratory issues, and brain inflammation.
Location of Human Trials
The first group of trial participants received their vaccine doses last week. This vaccine was developed using the same technology as the COVID-19 vaccines created by AstraZeneca and India's Serum Institute.
As of now, there is no existing vaccine for this dangerous virus. The Nipah virus was first identified nearly 25 years ago in Malaysia, with subsequent outbreaks in Bangladesh, India, and Singapore.
Insights from Scientists
A spokesperson from the university's Institute of Epidemiology stated that the initial phase of the trial at Oxford will involve 51 patients aged 18-55, assessing the vaccine's safety and impact on immunoresponse.
Subsequent trials are anticipated in Nipah-affected regions.
The Nipah virus, carried by fruit bats, has the pandemic potential similar to COVID-19.
Dr. In-Kyu Yoon from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation (CEPI) remarked, 'This trial will aid in developing technology to protect against this dangerous virus.'
The trial is led by the Oxford Vaccine Group, with funding from CEPI, a global alliance committed to developing vaccines against emerging infectious diseases.
Moderna commenced initial clinical trials for the Nipah virus vaccine in 2022, developed in collaboration with the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
How Dangerous is Nipah?
In September, the Kerala state in India witnessed its fourth outbreak in five years, with six infections and two deaths.
Infection results in symptoms like fever, headache, cough, difficulty in breathing, and potential brain inflammation. According to the World Health Organization, its fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%.
