Oxford University Kicks off Human Study for AstraZeneca's COVID-19 Vaccine Technology in Nipah Virus Defense

Oxford Vaccine Group, part of the University’s Pandemic Sciences Institute, has commenced the first-in-human trial of the ChAdOx1 NipahB vaccine, targeting the deadly Nipah virus. 

The trial involves 51 participants aged 18 to 55. Funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), this initiative marks a significant stride in combating the highly fatal Nipah virus.

The project is expected to run over the next 18 months, with further trials anticipated in a country affected by the Nipah virus.

The Nipah virus, causing fatalities in approximately 75% of cases, has previously triggered outbreaks in Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and India. 

Nipah virus (NiV) is a virus that spreads between animals and people (a zoonotic virus). 

It spreads mainly through fruit bats but can also spread through pigs and other animals like goats, horses, dogs, or cats.

Nipah virus can cause mild to severe symptoms, including encephalitis (brain infection) and death.

Recognized by the World Health Organization as a priority disease demanding urgent research, Nipah shares its viral family with well-known pathogens like measles. Despite originating 25 years ago, no approved vaccines or treatments for Nipah exist.

The experimental vaccine employs technology akin to the AstraZeneca Plc AZN and Serum Institute of India’s COVID-19 shots.

Reuters notes that in 2022, another famed COVID-19 vaccine maker, Moderna Inc MRNA, started an early-stage clinical trial of a Nipah virus vaccine, which it co-developed with the U.S.U.S.’ National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Price Action: AZN shares are trading higher by 0.40% at $69.85 premarket on the last check Thursday.

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Photo by Paul McManus from Pixabay