Health Literacy AsiaResearchers at Cornell University have developed a new vaccine that provides stronger and longer-lasting protection against COVID-19 and the flu. In lab tests, vaccinated mice remained completely healthy, showing no illness or organ damage after exposure to either virus.
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Why a new vaccine? Current COVID-19 and flu vaccines have limitations: – Short-term protection, requiring frequent booster shots. – Flu vaccine effectiveness is often below 50% and must be updated yearly. – mRNA COVID-19 vaccines require ultra-cold storage, making distribution challenging. |
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How it works The new vaccine: – Provides long-term immunity (mice were still protected after 8 months). – Targets a stable flu protein (neuraminidase) for broader protection. – Remains stable at room temperature, making it easier to store and distribute. |
This innovative approach uses a harmless virus (VSV) modified to include COVID-19 and flu proteins, training the immune system to fight both. Scientists believe it could also be adapted for other deadly viruses like Ebola and Nipah.
A potential game-changer
What’s next?
The research team has launched VIVA Viral Vaccines, Inc. to develop the human-use vaccine. If successful, this breakthrough could reduce healthcare costs, increase vaccination rates, and save millions of lives—possibly offering protection for up to five years or more instead of annual flu shots. (Source: Cornell Chronicles)
Summarized by Daniela A. La Marca, Global Health Press
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