Research on vaccines and immunization. Covers COVID and flu vaccines, outbreak response, long-lasting antibodies, and vaccination in vulnerable groups.
Phony Russian Twitter accounts contributed to the politicization of vaccine discussions among Americans, leading to increased polarization. Researchers found that pro-Trump personas expressed anti-vaccine sentiments, while anti-Trump personas supported vaccines.
Researchers at the Babraham Institute found that applying genital wart treatment can enhance the immune system of older mice and humans. By boosting T follicular helper cells, they were able to rescue age-dependent defects in immune cell types, offering hope for improving vaccination response in older populations.
Researchers at Texas Biomed launched a comprehensive multi-species study to identify the best animal model for COVID-19. The study includes four additional species and aims to pinpoint the most effective model for diagnostics, vaccines, and therapies.
VIDO-InterVac will receive $12 million in federal funding to construct a pilot-scale vaccine manufacturing facility and $11.3 million for continued operational funding, enabling the development of a human vaccine for COVID-19.
A new oral poliovirus vaccine is urgently needed due to ongoing mutant polio outbreaks. The current OPV2 formulation's continued use contributes to transmission and outbreaks, prompting the need for a novel serotype 2 vaccine.
Combining therapeutic HPV vaccine ISA101 with chemotherapy drugs carboplatin and paclitaxel may extend survival in patients with advanced cervical cancer. The vaccine was well-tolerated, reducing suppressive myeloid cells to better stimulate T cell responses.
A Swedish-Finnish study found that HPV vaccination of both boys and girls prevents infections effectively, even if only 80% of girls are vaccinated. Mathematical modelling shows that vaccinating both genders can eliminate the most oncogenic HPV type 16 in a few years after age 30.
Research by University of Otago found significant levels of negative information about vaccines available online, including on Google, Facebook, and YouTube. Health professionals can help inform parents by referring them to credible websites containing well-validated information.
Researchers analyzed published scientific data on SARS-CoV-2 and related coronaviruses to identify potential therapeutic agents and vaccines. More than 500 patents have been issued for COVID-19 treatments, including antibodies and nucleic acids.
A randomized controlled trial found that tailored messages addressing HPV vaccine concerns improved intent to vaccinate, while a bundled approach was less effective. The study suggests that personalized messaging may be essential for increasing HPV vaccination uptake among hesitant parents.
Researchers at UT Austin found a correlation between higher median incomes, urbanization, and lower vaccination rates among white, educated Texans. The study identified pockets of high-risk communities in Texas where outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases are more likely to occur.
A study of 109,908 non-migrant individuals found that routine childhood vaccination was associated with 0.2-0.3 additional schooling grades among adults, a significant link across socioeconomic and demographic factors. The finding supports the long-term benefits of vaccines beyond health outcomes.
A large observational study of nearly 387,000 children found no association between rotavirus vaccination and the development of type 1 diabetes. Researchers noted limitations and potential confounding variables that may have affected results.
A University of Saskatchewan research team has been awarded nearly $1 million to develop animal models and test vaccine candidates for the new coronavirus. The project aims to identify suitable animal models to replicate human disease, with a goal of developing a pan-coronavirus vaccine.
Researchers discovered that pre-immunization with common childhood vaccines can boost anti-tumor efficacy when combined with a hybrid viral platform called PeptiCRAd.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that adults who completed their childhood vaccination series against tetanus and diphtheria are protected for life. The researchers compared data from millions of people across North America and Europe between 2001 and 2016, concluding that booster shots are not necessary.
The Vaccine For Children (VFC) Program has increased vaccination rates and reduced social disparities among Medicaid-insured children. Pediatricians value the program for its ability to provide free vaccinations regardless of payment status, leading to improved overall vaccination rates.
A breakthrough in coronavirus research has led to the creation of a 3D atomic scale map of the part of the virus that attaches to and infects human cells. This mapping is crucial for developing vaccines and antiviral drugs against the 2019 novel coronavirus.
A study found that people exposed to vaccine content on social media were more likely to be misinformed about vaccines than those exposed to it on traditional media. Up to 20% of respondents were at least somewhat misinformed, with common claims including the link between vaccines and autism.
A recent study published in BMJ Case Reports highlights the serious complications of measles, including hepatitis, appendicitis, and viral meningitis. The authors report on three cases of adults treated for measles, highlighting the need for urgent efforts to ensure global coverage with two-dose measles vaccines.
A study found that HPV vaccination rates dropped significantly after the government's suspension of proactive recommendations, leading to potential 5,000 additional deaths. Restoring high-level political support and proactive recommendations could prevent most of this damage.
A new study found that the Zoster Vaccine Live shingles vaccination may prevent some older adults from having a stroke, reducing the risk by about 16% for ischemic stroke and 12% for hemorrhagic stroke. The vaccine's protection was strongest among people ages 66 to 79 years.
Recent advances in TB diagnostics, treatments and prevention offer hope for reducing and ultimately eliminating the burden of tuberculosis. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has made significant progress in improving TB diagnostics, therapeutic regimens and prevention approaches.
Rutgers researchers found young sexual minority men lack knowledge about HPV and its importance. Health care providers often inadequately discuss the virus and vaccine with these patients.
A novel vaccine called Triplex reduced CMV complications by half and induced immunity in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. No vaccine-associated safety concerns were identified in the phase 2 randomized clinical trial.
A single dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is as effective as multiple doses for preventing preinvasive cervical disease, which can later develop into cervical cancer. The risk of preinvasive cervical disease was lower in adolescents who received one, two, or three doses of the HPV vaccine compared to unvaccinated teens.
A phase 2 randomized trial study found that patients who received the Triplex vaccine had 50% fewer CMV complications and developed immunity against the virus. The vaccine showed promise as a potential therapy for transplant recipients with weakened immune systems.
A new study found that peace of mind plays a significant role in parents' attitude towards vaccines, with reassurance from knowledge of benefits and healthcare providers influencing decisions. The research suggests that decision makers should consider these benefits when making funding decisions.
Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a novel therapeutic approach to cure chronic hepatitis B infection. By knocking down the expression of the virus' proteins, they enabled successful vaccination with TherVacB, a novel therapeutic vaccine. The therapy aims to cure existing chronic diseases by activating immune cells.
Researchers have identified a potential vaccine to prevent respiratory infections in humans by understanding how the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) hides from the immune system. A mutated form of HMPV was created, which triggers a stronger innate immune response, effectively preventing infection and promoting an adaptive immune response.
Researchers propose using genomic data and mathematical modelling to design vaccines for the specific geographic location where they will be used. This approach aims to minimize rates of pneumococcal disease, a serious infection that can cause pneumonia, sepsis, and bacterial meningitis.
A new study shows that a single dose of the Army-developed Zika vaccine can induce potent cross-neutralizing antibody responses against both Zika and dengue viruses. Researchers found that these antibodies, called MZ4, protected against both viruses in a mouse model of infection.
A team of international scientists has created a global map of dengue transmission intensity and predicted that releasing infected mosquitoes with Wolbachia could reduce cases by up to 90%. The study also suggests that the Sanofi Pasteur dengue vaccine could reduce cases by up to 30%.
The study found good protection against meningococcal disease in vaccinated individuals, but no overall reduction in bacterial carriage. The findings highlight the importance of individual vaccination and identify high-risk behaviors associated with bacterial transmission.
A new analysis of HPV vaccine clinical trials raises doubts about their effectiveness, citing methodological problems and limited trial populations. The study found that the trials were not designed to detect cervical cancer, which takes decades to develop, and that vaccination may only prevent low-grade abnormal cell changes.
Researchers Aarthi Narayanan and Remi Veneziano at George Mason University are developing a new vaccine design using DNA origami to deliver viral antigens. The customizability of the DNA structures enhances immunogenic potential while ensuring safety.
A new method to produce cheaper, longer-lasting vaccines has been developed using a protein called polyhedrin. Researchers found that PH(1-110) particles stored as dry powder can still generate antibodies after up to twelve months of storage.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that typhoid prevalence is likely higher than estimated due to missed blood cultures, with patients more likely to have cultures if older, feverish or suspected urinary tract infection.
Researchers developed a novel cryogel vaccine that primes the immune system to attack and eliminate acute myeloid leukemia cells in mice. The vaccine successfully protected against disease recurrence when combined with chemotherapy.
The Partnership for Research on Ebola Vaccination (PREVAC) has received additional funding to evaluate three Ebola vaccine regimens for long-term safety and durability. The PREVAC-UP project will assess these factors over 5 years after vaccination, as well as the impact of co-infections like malaria and helminths on immune responses.
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has renewed its partnership with Sweden's Swedish International Cooperation Agency (Sida) to accelerate vaccine research and development for global health. The five-year partnership will focus on infectious diseases of global importance, including cholera, typhoid, and dengue.
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has received a $1.4 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop international standards for oral cholera vaccine manufacturing. This will enable multiple manufacturers to produce low-cost vaccines, meeting global demand and ensuring uniform efficacy.
The AAFP has released updated Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management Guidelines, providing current information on pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. The guidelines aim to optimize care for feline patients infected with FeLV and FIV, and offer practical guidance for veterinarians and cat caregivers.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed a single-particle method using atomic force microscopy to determine virus isoelectric points, improving the accuracy of characterization and paving the way for more efficient vaccine production and gene therapy manufacturing.
A pediatrician at Children's National Hospital wrote a 27-line poem inspired by her young patients' comments about vaccines. The poem, part of the 'Poetry and Medicine' series, aims to capture the optimism and resilience of children despite challenges. Dr. Sims hopes the poem will help build self-efficacy and resiliency in her patients.
A recent Danish study found that vaccine misinformation resulted in a 50.4% drop in HPV vaccination rates, leaving around 26,000 girls unvaccinated and potentially exposing them to 180 avoidable cervical cancer cases and 45 deaths.
Researchers found that intravenous BCG vaccination significantly increased protection against TB in rhesus macaques. The study showed that IV BCG elicited strong, sustained T cell responses in the lungs, leading to a high degree of protection against infection and disease.
A new study reveals that one dose of the HPV vaccine may prevent infection from the potential cancer-causing virus, with implications for reducing global cancer burden. The current two- or three-dose series may be replaced by a single dose regimen if ongoing clinical trials provide sustained benefits.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that T cells play a critical role in protecting against staph infections. The study suggests activating untapped immune cells and immunizing infants before birth to block toxin effects. This new approach shows promise for developing an effective staph vaccine.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that California's elimination of non-medical vaccine exemptions led to a significant increase in MMR vaccination coverage, with non-medical exemptions decreasing by 2.4% and medical exemptions increasing by 0.4%. The policy change was associated with a 3.3% increase in MMR coverage across th...
A California law eliminating nonmedical exemptions increased vaccination rates and restored 'herd immunity,' preventing outbreaks. The study found a 3.3% increase in MMR coverage and a 4.3% increase in overall vaccination coverage, while nonmedical exemptions decreased by 2.4%.
A new study found that a Zika vaccine developed by NIH improved fetal outcomes in pregnant monkeys and rhesus macaques infected with congenital Zika virus. The vaccine reduced virus levels and prevented fetal infection, suggesting sterilizing immunity may not be required for protection.
An experimental Zika DNA vaccine VRC5283 reduced virus levels and improved fetal outcomes in pregnant rhesus macaques. The results suggest the vaccine may prevent transmission to humans as well.
A research team developed a microneedle platform using fluorescent quantum dots to deliver vaccines and record vaccination history in the skin. The platform offers a dependable way for clinicians to keep accurate medical records, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.
Researchers developed a Zika vaccine that safely protects both mother and fetus from the virus. However, pregnancy weakens the immune response, requiring a higher dose of vaccination to be effective.
Researchers have successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of a vaccinia virus RNA polymerase at atomic resolution, providing key findings on virus multiplication. The complex is composed of various subunits and relies on host tRNA molecules to function, enabling an essential step in the pathogen's life cycle.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made significant progress in developing a novel Zika virus vaccine that prevents infection in pre-clinical models. The vaccine's effectiveness has been demonstrated in mouse models, offering a promising solution to prevent congenital effects in infants born to infected mothers.
Researchers developed a vaccine that targets flagellin in the gut microbiota to reduce inflammation. The vaccine showed protection against intestinal inflammation and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
A new species of insect virus, Binjari virus, has been identified that can be engineered to house genes from disease-causing flaviviruses. This non-infectious virus represents a flexible tool for testing diagnostics and vaccines for various infectious diseases, including yellow fever, dengue, and West Nile encephalitis.
A study found that almost 60% of eligible young travelers were not vaccinated due to clinician decision or guardian refusal, despite recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The researchers emphasize the urgent need for greater awareness of MMR vaccination benefits for international travelers.