From Allafrica · · 2m
Ebola Vaccine Trials Offer Hope for DR Congo Outbreak
New Ebola vaccines could save lives in DR Congo outbreak as trials begin.
In brief
New Ebola vaccines could save lives in DR Congo outbreak as trials begin. DR Congo's Ebola outbreak may be contained with new vaccines after phase 1 trials start in October. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo
The DRC's worst-ever Ebola outbreak has now passed the 9,000-case mark with deaths topping 4,000 at the beginning of this month.
No Approved Bundibugyo Vaccine
Five months into the outbreak, there is still no approved vaccine against the rare Bundibugyo strain that has caused more than 4,000 deaths.
First Vaccine Trials Begin
The first clinical trial of a potential vaccine is expected to begin by the end of October, according to WHO experts.
Ervebo Vaccine for Zaire Strain
Ervebo, a vaccine approved for the more common Zaire strain of Ebola, will undergo full-scale human trials in the DRC to test cross-protection against Bundibugyo.
Two Bundibugyo Vaccines in Development
Two vaccines specifically for Bundibugyo are being developed: one by the University of Oxford and another by Moderna using mRNA technology.
Phase 1 Trial Results
The phase 1 trials for both vaccines are expected to provide safety data and immune response results by late October.
Potential Rollout Timeline
If results are positive, phase 2 and 3 trials may begin on larger populations in 2027, with a potential rollout in the first half of 2027.
Gavi's $50 Million Response
Gavi mobilised $50 million (€44 million) to support the response, including access to vaccines for the outbreak.
70,000 Doses Released
70,000 doses of Ervebo were released from the global stockpile funded by Gavi in August for studies and healthcare worker vaccination.
Challenges in Response
Seventy percent of deaths occur in communities before patients reach health facilities, hampering early detection and care.
Community Trust Needed
Healthcare workers and trusted community figures are essential to bridge the gap between vaccine availability and community acceptance.
Future Preparedness
If an effective Bundibugyo vaccine is developed, Gavi plans to build a global stockpile for future epidemics in the DRC and beyond.
In short
DR Congo's Ebola outbreak may be contained with new vaccines after phase 1 trials start in October.
