London

Traveling Abroad During Ramadan is Rewarding

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 18:03:36 +0000

Reviewer:

The British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) says Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims, with many 'Brits' traveling abroad to visit friends and family.

This year, the M\BIMA says the holy month is expected to begin on February 28, 2025, as the official start of Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, so it depends on the sighting of the moon.

In 2024, 30 million pilgrims performed Umrah during Ramadan, the Islamic pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Approximately 13.5 million pilgrims were international travelers, including United Kingdom residents.

As of February 12, 2025, TravelHealthPro offers updated advice about recommended vaccines, mosquito-spread infections such as chikungunya, dengue, malaria, and respiratory illnesses like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) at your destination.

While many diseases have approved vaccines available in 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved a MERS-CoV vaccine candidate.

If you are traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Ministry of Health has established vaccine requirements/recommendations for pilgrims who wish to obtain an Entry Visa to perform Umrah.

Even if time is short, last-minute travel advice is helpful, as vaccines can be given just before departure. Pharmacists or travel clinics to make sure all your recommended travel and routine vaccines, including flu, measles, mumps and rubella, polio, diphtheria, and tetanus, are on date.

If you have any medical conditions, ensure to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider.

Furthermore, check the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and the U.S. Department of State foreign travel advice for information on safety and security at your destination.

Sub Title:

Saudi Arabia has vaccination requirements in 2025

References:

British Islamic Medical Association 2025

UK Travel Advice 2025

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Thursday, February 13, 2025 - 07:00

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US Dept of State 2025

6th Clade Ib Mpox Case Confirmed in England

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:13:29 +0000

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recently announced that a new clade Ib mpox had been detected in England in an individual who recently returned from Uganda, where there is community transmission of the clade Ib mpox virus.

According to the UKHSA on January 20, 2025, this is the sixth case of clade Ib mpox confirmed since October 2024.

The case was detected in East Sussex, is unrelated to the previous cases identified in England, and the individual is now under specialist care at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. Close contacts of this new case are being followed up.

East Sussex County has a population of 820,000 and is located southeast of London.

'In the context of the outbreak in parts of Africa, we expect to see the occasional imported case of clade Ib mpox in the UK. The risk to the UK population remains low,' wrote the UKHSA.

Imported clade 1b cases have been detected in about 20 countries, including Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Sweden, and the United States.

The first case of clade I mpox in the U.S. was confirmed in California in November 2024

In a press release, Dr. Meera Chand, Deputy Director at UKHSA, commented, "We have detected this new case thanks to clinicians rapidly recognizing the symptoms and the work of our specialist laboratory."

Two types of the virus cause mpox, clade I and clade II. Furthermore, the clade II mpox continues circulating in various countries, including the U.S.

Since May 2022, when the Clade II outbreak launched, there have been a total of more than 102,000 cases worldwide, with more than 220 reported deaths.

As a treatment option, SIGA Technologies recently announced that its antiviral treatment TEPOXX (tecovirimat 200 mg capsules, TPOXX) had received regulatory approval in Japan to treat mpox.

Furthermore, mpox vaccines continue to be available in various countries. On January 21, 2025, the European Commission announced the delivery of 10,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine to Uganda to support the country's response to the ongoing mpox outbreak.

As of January 22, 2025, mpox vaccines are available at many clinics and pharmacies in the UK and the U.S.

Sub Title:

East Sussex reports mpox case south of London in 2025

Reference:

UKHSA 2025

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US CDC Jan. 16, 2025

Another Herpes Vaccine Candidate Flops

Karen McClorey Hackett — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:24:21 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Given the unmet medical need and burden associated with genital herpes, the approval of an innovative vaccine is much anticipated. Unfortunately, developing protective herpes simplex virus (HSV) vaccines has been challenging for decades.

However, the wait will continue according to GSK plc's recent announcement.

On September 12, 2024, GSK confirmed that it had completed the primary objective data analysis from the phase II part of the TH HSV REC-003 clinical trial. This trial is a combined phase I/II proof-of-concept study to assess the potential clinical efficacy of GSK3943104, an early-stage therapeutic herpes simplex virus (HSV) vaccine candidate.

Results from this study show that GSK3943104 did not meet the study's primary efficacy objective.

Therefore, this vaccine candidate will not progress to phase III studies. GSK wrote that it is working with study investigators to inform the participants.

The good news is that GSK's TH HSV REC-003 study will continue for routine safety monitoring and to generate follow-up data that could offer valuable insights into recurrent genital herpes. GSK said it intends to evaluate the totality of all these data and other studies to progress future research and development of its HSV program.

GSK previously terminated a SAM-based herpes vaccine approach, GSK4108771A, in 2021.

Genital herpes is a common infection caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, which has led to millions of genital ulcers or neonatal herpes infections. Furthermore, about 30% of pregnant women in the United States have genital infection with HSV.

As of September 2024, current herpes vaccine candidates are based on DNA, modified mRNA, protein subunits, killed virus, and attenuated live virus vaccine technologies. Two mRNA vaccine candidates, mRNA-1608 and BNT163, are progressing through clinical trials.

The U.S. National Instuties of Health and global partners have launched STI Watch, a digital portal containing updated information on vaccine development status. As of September 2024, no country has approved a herpes vaccine.

Sub Title:

mRNA herpes vaccine candidates continue clinical studies in 2024

Reference:

GSK updates phase I/II therapeutic herpes simplex virus (HSV) vaccine

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Friday, September 13, 2024 - 00:45

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from Pixabay

Will Lassa-X Cause a Pandemic

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:16:22 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Since the disease was first documented in 1969, Lassa fever has become a public health risk in western Africa.

For the first time, researchers at the University of Liverpool and the University of Oxford have estimated the current burden of Lassa fever, projected the impacts of a Lassa fever vaccination program, and demonstrated how it may help avoid a future pandemic.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concerns that a Lassa-related virus could cause a global concern due to the lack of effective vaccines and treatments.

Published on August 28, 2024, this study estimates the health-economic burden of Lassa fever throughout West Africa and projects the impacts of a series of vaccination campaigns.

It suggests how vaccination could alleviate the burden and assist in pandemic preparedness.

These London-based researchers also model the emergence of ‘Lassa-X’—a hypothetical pandemic Lassa virus variant—and project impacts of achieving 100 Days Mission vaccination targets.

Their model predicted 2.7 million (95% uncertainty interval: 2.1–3.4 million) Lassa virus infections annually, resulting in 2.0 million (793,800–3.9 million) disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) over ten years.

A population-wide preventive campaign targeting WHO-classified ‘endemic’ districts was found to be the most effective vaccination strategy.

Under conservative vaccine efficacy assumptions, this campaign averted $20.1 million ($8.2–$39.0 million) in lost DALY value and $128.2 million ($67.2–$231.9 million) in societal costs.

Reactive vaccination in response to local outbreaks averted just one-tenth the health-economic burden of preventive campaigns.

In the event of Lassa-X emerging, spreading throughout West Africa, and causing approximately 1.2 million DALYs within two years, 100 Days Mission vaccination averted 22% of DALYs given a vaccine 70% effective against the disease, and 74% of DALYs given a vaccine 70% effective against both infection and disease.

As of late August 2024, several Lassa fever vaccine candidates are conducting clinical research.

The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Interventions funded this study, which was published in the journal Nature Medicine.

Sub Title:

Lassa Fever virus preventive vaccines are essential to public health

References:

Preventive vaccination could be a key strategy against Lassa fever

Health and economic impacts of Lassa vaccination campaigns in West Africa

US CDC Lassa Fever

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Thursday, August 29, 2024 - 06:15

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Nature Medicine - Lassa Fever case map - August 28, 2024

$150 Million Accelerates Scientific Concepts Starting in Respiratory and Immunology Medicines and Vaccines

Donald Hackett — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:33:04 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

GSK plc and Flagship Pioneering today announced they have entered a collaboration to discover and develop a portfolio of future transformational medicines and vaccines, starting in respiratory and immunology.

This alliance combines GSK’s disease area expertise and development capability with Flagship’s ecosystem of bioplatform companies, including its novel modalities and technologies, to make significant advances in healthcare.

GSK and Flagship will initially fund up to $150 million upfront to support an exploration phase to identify the most promising concepts for further research and development with Flagship’s bioplatform companies.

From these explorations, the collaboration aims to identify a portfolio of up to 10 novel medicines and vaccines which will each be subject to an exclusive option by GSK for further clinical development.

Under the terms of the agreement, Flagship and its bioplatform companies will be eligible to receive up to $720 million in upfront, development and commercial milestones from GSK, as well as preclinical funding and tiered royalties, for each acquired program.

Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer, GSK, said: “Together with Flagship, we will use science and technology to deliver best-in-class innovation at pace. We look forward to partnering with the talented team at Flagship, and their ecosystem of bioplatform companies, to further accelerate our pipeline and discover practice-changing medicines and vaccines for patients.”

Since its launch in 2000, Flagship has originated and fostered more than 100 scientific ventures, resulting in more than $75 billion in aggregate value. To date, Flagship has deployed over $3.8 billion in capital toward the founding and growth of its pioneering companies alongside more than $27 billion of follow-on investments from other institutions.

Sub Title:

Collaboration of GSK disease area expertise with Flagship 40 bioplatform companies

Reference:

GSK and Flagship Pioneering partner to discover novel medicines and vaccines

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Tuesday, July 30, 2024 - 06:30

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Brainstorming from Pixabay

National RSV Vaccination Program Launches in the UK

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:53:28 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

The United Kingdom (UK) has announced that it will be the first country to implement a national program using the same vaccine to protect newborns following vaccinating pregnant women and older adults against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Each year in the UK, RSV infections are responsible for 20 to 30 infant deaths and around 9,000 hospital admissions in those aged over 75.

A press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care and Andrew Gwynne MP on July 17, 2024, stated that the vaccination program will commence in Scotland in mid-August, followed by England, Wales, and Northern Ireland in September.

Minister for Public Health and Prevention Andrew Gwynne commented in the press release, "As someone who has seen the devastating effects of RSV firsthand, I am thrilled to see the UK leading the way in tackling this devastating disease."

The program follows the advice from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation published in September 2023.

The UK selected Pfizer Inc.'s RSV vaccine for the program.

This new vaccination program is the second UK effort to protect infants from RSV.

In November 2022, following European Commission approval, the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency approved Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), a single-dose, long-acting antibody, to prevent RSV lower respiratory tract disease in newborns and infants during their first RSV season.

Beyfortus is the first and only single-dose RSV protective option for the broad infant population, including those born healthy, at term or preterm, or with specific health conditions.

In the United States, three RSV vaccines, including Beyfortus, have been FDA-approved and are available for the 2024-2025 RSV season.

Sub Title:

Beyfortus nirsevimab is approved to protect infants from RSV in the United Kingdom

References:

UK - National RSV vaccination programme announced

MHRA Grants Approval of Beyfortus for Prevention of RSV Disease in Infants

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Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - 05:30

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by Artur Pawlak

England Offers Ample Access to UTI Vaccines

Karen McClorey Hackett — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 20:23:15 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

The United Kingdom's NHS recently updated its urinary tract infection (UTI) webpage to explain that some people may experience persistent UTI symptoms, and current urine tests may not detect chronic infections caused by bacteria embedded in the bladder lining.

Chronic UTIs, also known as recurrent UTIs (rUTIs), are typically treated with antibiotics. The NHS advises patients to ask their GP to refer them to a specialist if they experience rUTIs.

A recent study in England revealed that a novel oral spray vaccine could potentially prevent rUTIs for years. Researchers at the Royal Berkshire Hospital conducted a significant clinical trial using the Uromune® (MV140) vaccine.

Nine years after treatment, 54% of participants in the study reported the vaccine's continued efficacy without significant side effects.

In previous clinical research, Uromune induced immune responses systemically and in the genitourinary tract, especially the bladder's innate immune system.

This multi-dose vaccine contains four whole-cell inactivated bacteria: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, and Enterococcus faecalis. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli accounts for the majority of community-acquired UTIs.

Recently, access to Uromune in England has expanded to patients who have been treated in secondary care before referral and have failed standard treatment protocols for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, and chronic bladder pain.

These vaccine providers include:

London Urologica operates from The London Clinic, a charitable hospital in central London. At The London Clinic, international consultants with teams of health professionals specialize in the care and treatment of complex medical conditions.

The Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Service is a specialist for adult patients with complex chronic or rUTIs. Specialists in this tertiary clinic adhere to protocols requiring strict clinical governance.

The Urology Partnership (The Reading Urology Partnership) comprises consultants, each with a particular field of excellence. All consultants hold substantive appointments at the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust Hospital in Reading, Berkshire.

For rUTI patients willing to travel, the Uromune vaccine may be offered via Expanded Access Programs. These programs are for individuals for whom antibiotic therapy has failed, antibiotic-induced adverse reactions, and increasing antibiotic resistance.

Uromune is offered in the Dominican Republic, Singapore, and other countries. However, Uromune is commercially unavailable in the United States and is not U.S. FDA-approved, but UTI vaccine clinical trials are active in 2024.

International vaccine appointments can be requested at Vax-Before-Travel.

Updated on July 16, 2024 to clarify the UTI vaccine is not U.S. FDA-approved.

Sub Title:

Uromune MV140 availability in 2024 in over twenty countries

References:

Uromune MV140 Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection (rUTI) Vaccine Clinical Trials, Dosage, Indication, Side Effects

NHS - Urinary tract infections

Royal Berkshire Foundation Trust research

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UTI, vaccinations

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Sunday, July 14, 2024 - 06:00

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from Pixabay

Single-dose Malaria Medicine Prevents Relapse

Karen McClorey Hackett — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 11:23:44 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

GSK plc and Medicines for Malaria Venture today announced that the first single-dose of tafenoquine, co-administered with chloroquine for a radical cure, for the prevention of relapse of Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) malaria, has now been launched in Thailand and Brazil.

In response to the ongoing public health emergency, the government of Brazil accelerated the introduction of tafenoquine in March 2024. The rollout of this new testing and treatment option has begun within the public health system.

In Brazil, malaria cases in indigenous population villages are predicted to reach over 51,000 in 2024. Relapses also increase the disease burden and the potential for onward transmission, ultimately impeding global efforts to eliminate malaria.

Dr. Marcus Lacerda, Tropical Medicine Foundation Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado and Principal Investigator for the Tafenoquine Rollout STudy, said in a press release on July 5, 2024, “The launch of tafenoquine in Brazil marks a significant step forward in our country’s mission to eliminate malaria by 2035."

Tafenoquine is an 8-aminoquinoline, antimalarial drug targeting the liver-stage of P. vivax malaria. Tafenoquine, like all 8-aminoquinolines, has the potential to cause acute hemolytic anemia in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

Therefore, a G6PD test must be performed before prescribing.

When combined with chloroquine for the blood-stage infection, tafenoquine provides what is known as a radical cure: the treatment of both the disease's blood- and liver stages.

P. vivax is the dominant malaria parasite in most countries outside of sub-Saharan Africa.

Approvals for tafenoquine have been granted in the U.S. (ARAKODA™), Australia, Brazil, Ethiopia, Guyana, Peru, Thailand, Colombia, and the Philippines, and the drug is undergoing marketing authorization evaluation in several other countries where P. vivax is endemic.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2,000 malaria cases are diagnosed in the United States annually, mostly in travelers. However, in 2023, seven locally acquired malaria cases were reported in the Sarasota, Florida, area.

In Africa, two malaria prevention vaccines have been authorized.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends Mosquirix™ and R21 / Matrix-M™ vaccines. The WHO estimates the annual global demand for malaria vaccines is about 40–60 million doses by 2026.

R21/Matrix-M includes Novavax AB saponin-based Matrix-M adjuvant and is licensed to and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India Private Ltd.

Neither malaria vaccine is available in the United States in 2024.

Sub Title:

Tafenoquine is an antimalarial drug targeting the liver-stage of P vivax malaria

References:

Brazil and Thailand become first malaria-endemic countries to launch new single-dose radical cure medicine to prevent the relaps

US FDA Approves ARAKODA™ (tafenoquine)

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Friday, July 5, 2024 - 05:30

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US CDC Malaria map June 2024

Medical Tourism Services Include UTI Vaccines

Donald Hackett — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 09:52:23 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

An in-depth analysis of medical tourism reveals that companies are focusing on the needs of international patients, including access to advanced treatments, says the Company Filing Analytics Database of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

On July 1, 2024, GlobalData reported medical tourism now provides an additional revenue stream for companies.

For instance, Max Healthcare Institute Ltd recently revealed that its international patient yearly revenue grew by 14%. And Fortis Healthcare Ltd.'s medical travel revenue grew 12%.

In a press release, Misa Singh, a Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, commented, "Vying for a piece of this big opportunity."

"....some (companies) are focused on positioning themselves as a key destination for international patients in certain areas of medical care."

"Other prominent discussion agendas include compliance with regulatory requirements, a focus on building reputation and brand in different countries, and the rollout of an international patient support program."

Regarding vaccine services, Vax-Before-Travel recently referred over 1,000 people to international destinations that offer access to urinary tract infection (UTI) vaccines and treatments, which are unavailable in the United States in 2024.

Sub Title:

GlobalData finds medical tourism gains prominence in 2024

References:

Medical tourism gains prominence in filing documents of companies, finds GlobalData

GlobalData Company Filings Database

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Wednesday, July 3, 2024 - 05:30

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by Jan Vašek

UK Confirms 32% Increase in Malaria Cases

Karen McClorey Hackett — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:07:31 +0000

Reviewer:

Holly Lutmer PharmD

Robert Carlson, MD

In recognition of World Malaria Day 2024, various countries are reporting increased cases related to international travelers and actions to prevent further outbreaks.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently reported that global malaria cases were estimated at 249 million in 2022, an increase of about 2% from 2021.

According to the WHO, the African Region shoulders the heaviest burden of the disease, accounting for about 92% of malaria cases and deaths.

New data from the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) posted on April 24, 2024, shows that malaria diagnosed in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland reached 2,004 reported cases in 2023, a 32% increase from 1,369 in 2022.

The rise is linked to the resurgence of malaria in many countries and an increase in overseas travel, says the UKHSA.

Professor Peter Chiodini, Director of the UKHSA Malaria Reference Laboratory, stated in a press release on April 24, 2024, "While malaria can affect anyone, the majority of Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases in the U.K. occur in people with an Africa travel history."

"We are working in partnership with communities at greater risk to improve their access to and use of effective malaria prevention measures."

Since infected mosquitoes spread malaria, travelers can protect themselves by using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and sleeping under a treated bed net.

And these mosquitos are migrating geographically, which means other countries could report malaria outbreaks in the years ahead.

According to the U.S. CDC, specific treatment options depend on the malaria species, the infection's severity, the likelihood of drug resistance (based on where the infection was acquired), the patient's age, and whether the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.

Moreover, malaria can be effectively treated if therapy begins early in the disease stage. However, delaying treatment can have severe or even fatal consequences.

Furthermore, malaria can be prevented in 2024 with either of two WHO-approved vaccines. These new vaccines, which are being offered in Africa, could save tens of thousands of young lives every year.

The R21/Matrix-M™ vaccine includes Novavax AB's Matrix-M adjuvant and is licensed to and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India Private Ltd.

Since malaria vaccines are not offered in the U.K. or U.S., the WHO highly recommends speaking with a travel vaccine advisor before visiting malaria-endemic areas.

Sub Title:

92% of malaria cases in the UK originate from Africa

References:

UKHSA - Imported malaria cases diagnosed in 2023 exceed 2000 for the first time in over 20 years

US CDC Malaria 2024

UKHSA Guidelines for malaria prevention in travellers from the UK

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European Enviroment Agency

Over 1,100 Zika Cases Confirmed in 2024

Karen McClorey Hackett — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 12:11:11 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

According to the latest data from the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA), mosquito-borne infections associated with travel are increasing and returning to levels last recorded before the recent pandemic.

This UKHSA warning was issued on March 21, 2024, and is particularly concerning for diseases like dengue, malaria, and Zika. It emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to minimize health risks while traveling.

Moreover, there have been reports of people who recently returned from traveling abroad and were diagnosed with these severe illnesses in some parts of the U.K.

In 2023, eight Zika cases were reported in England, similar to 2022.

While the number of cases of Zika is low, the infection poses a particular threat to pregnant women and their unborn children.

Zika symptoms include fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscles, joints, and abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

Specifically, Zika-impacted children have often been diagnosed with microcephaly, a neurological condition that causes a baby's head to be smaller than usual.

Zika cases in the U.K. peaked in 2016 with 725 cases, reflecting the Zika outbreak in the Region of the Americas that year.

Ten countries have accounted for about 89% of Zika cases recorded between 2014 and 2023.

In countries with insects that spread diseases like dengue, malaria, or Zika, travelers can protect themselves by using insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and sleeping under a treated bed net where air conditioning is unavailable. 

Dr. Philip Veal, a consultant in public health with the UKHSA, commented in a press release, "As travel has increased following the lifting of travel restrictions during the pandemic, so have serious mosquito-borne infections."

"There are simple steps that people can take to reduce the risk of infections such as malaria, dengue, and Zika."

"Plan ahead and visit the TravelHealthPro website to look up your destination and the latest health information and advice. Even if you have visited or lived in a country before, you will not have the same protection against infections as local people and are still at risk."

The UKHSA and NaTHNaC have recently reviewed destination-specific guidance for countries with a known or possible risk of Zika virus. 

The UKHSA recommends international travelers consult their GP, practice nurse, pharmacist, or travel clinic at least one month before their trip for individual advice regarding travel vaccines relevant to their destination.

In 2024, over 1,100 Zika cases have been confirmed in the Americas.

Moreover, Zika reinfections have been confirmed.

The U.S. CDC recently published 'Evidence of Zika Virus Reinfection by Genome Diversity and Antibody Response Analysis.'

The CDC wrote in Volume 30, Number 2—February 2024, 'Although Zika reinfections are extremely difficult to confirm when there are only very similar phylogenetically strains causing an outbreak, we detected divergent viruses in Zika-infected persons who provided longitudinal samples, which suggests a subsequent and distinct infection event.'

Unfortunately, there is no approved drug or Zika vaccine.

However, as of March 23, 2024, several Zika vaccine candidates are conducting clinical trials.

Sub Title:

UKHSA reminds travelers to reduce Zika infection risk

References:

UK - Travel-associated infections approaching pre-pandemic levels

UK Health Security Agency and NaTHNaC have reviewed Zika information

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Zika, vaccinations

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Friday, March 29, 2024 - 12:45

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UKHSA Zika Cases March 2024

$57 Million Project To Test Next-Gen Inhaled and Nasal Coronavirus Vaccines

Karen McClorey Hackett — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:37:24 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

An international team of researchers specializing in human challenge studies has initiated a $57 million project to develop advanced vaccines that can block coronaviruses and prevent infections.

The consortium, consisting of more than a dozen scientific teams and organizations, is led by Imperial College London and co-funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe Programme and CEPI, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.

Imperial College London will lead the five-year Mucosal Immunity in Human Coronavirus Challenge (MusiCC) project. Its specialist researchers have years of experience using human challenge studies to deepen scientific understanding of infectious diseases.

The trials will use harmonized standard operating procedures and involve a small group of young, healthy volunteers at several sites in the UK, Europe, the United States, and Singapore.

In the challenge trial, volunteers will first receive either an investigational vaccine designed to provide mucosal coronavirus immunity or a placebo before being intentionally exposed to a calibrated dose of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

A seasonal coronavirus model called OC43 is also being developed for similar use.

Their first step is to conduct clinical trials to select particular viruses and determine the best way to induce infection in healthy volunteers safely. A human challenge study is a carefully managed medical research study during which volunteers are intentionally given an infection with healthcare support.

Researchers at multiple clinical research facilities will then use a selected virus to try to infect healthy volunteers who have received an experimental vaccine.

Unlike traditional vaccines, which are injected into a muscle, these experimental vaccines are inhaled into the lungs or sprayed in the nose and designed to induce a type of protection known as mucosal immunity—which scientists believe could be the key to stopping the onward transmission of coronaviruses.

"Vaccines that can stop transmission of a virus, rather than only reducing the severity of the disease it causes, are crucial to being able to end pandemics and epidemics swiftly," said Dr Richard Hatchett, CEPI's Chief Executive Officer, in a press release on March 11, 2024.

Human challenge studies are unique in their ability to investigate and understand the onset and development of disease in a safe and highly controlled environment.

They enable scientists to observe and analyze complex interactions between viruses and the human immune system and to identify ways to disrupt and block viral infections.

The launch of the MusiCC project follows the Call for Proposals issued by CEPI and co-funded by the European Union to support international research conducting human challenge-based vaccine trials that seek to improve scientific understanding of mucosal immunity against Betacoronaviruses.

Imperial is working with CW+, the official charity of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to develop infrastructure support for human challenge studies. The aim is to create a London hub for future human challenge studies.

Sub Title:

Global consortium hunts for transmission-blocking coronavirus vaccines

References:

Global consortium plans coordinated human challenge studies in hunt for transmission-blocking coronavirus vaccines

Consortium to push for next generation of vaccines

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Fact checked:

Thursday, March 14, 2024 - 05:45

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Daniel Dan

Chickenpox Vaccination Recommended in England

Karen McClorey Hackett — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:53:22 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Vaccine experts in the United Kingdom recommended expanding its children's vaccination program to better align with other developed countries.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recommended adding a vaccine against varicella, known as chickenpox, to the U.K.'s routine childhood immunization program.

The vaccine would be offered to all toddlers in two doses, using the combined MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccine.

Merck's ProQuad® MMRV vaccine is generally available at clinics and pharmacies in the United States.

The committee has submitted its recommendations to the Department of Health and Social Care, which will decide whether to implement a program.

The JCVI has also recommended a temporary catch-up program for older children be included in the initial rollout.

Recent seroepidemiology data from the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicates that approximately half of children have had varicella by the time they are four years old, rising to 90% by the time they are ten years old.

Varicella, or chickenpox, is a highly infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in a previously infected person, a risk because the virus remains dormant in the body following an initial varicella infection.

People with herpes zoster can transmit the virus to susceptible people to cause chickenpox, but herpes zoster is not acquired from coming into contact with someone with varicella.

Chickenpox cases were significantly reduced during the recent pandemic, meaning there is currently a larger pool of children than usual without immunity.

The catch-up program would offer them protection against more significant risks from the illness through later childhood or as adults when chickenpox can be more severe.

If approved, it would align the U.K. with other countries offering routine varicella vaccination, including Germany, Canada, Australia, and the U.S., the latter of which has had a childhood program since 1995.

Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director of Public Health Programmes at the UKHSA, commented in a press release on November 14, 2023, "Introducing a vaccine against chickenpox would prevent most children getting what can be quite a nasty illness – and for those who would experience more severe symptoms, it could be a lifesaver."

"The JCVI's recommendations will help make chickenpox a problem of the past and bring the U.K. into line with several other countries with well-established programs."

Sub Title:

UK Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation recommends varicella vaccinations for children

References:

Independent report JCVI statement on a childhood varicella (chickenpox) vaccination programme

JCVI recommends chickenpox vaccine in childhood immunisation programme

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Age Groups:

Pre School

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chickenpox, vaccinations

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Fact checked:

Wednesday, November 15, 2023 - 06:00

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from Pixabay

Tuberculosis Notifications Increased 8.1% in England

Karen McClorey Hackett — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:54:24 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

Holly Lutmer PharmD

Tuberculosis (TB) is an ancient disease impacting modern cities in 2023, such as London, England.

Over the last two years, the 5% annual rate increase goal outlined in the joint UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS England TB action plan for England, 2021 to 2026 has not been achieved.

The UKHSA announced on October 26, 2023, there was an 8.1% increase in TB notifications this year compared with the same period in 2022 (3,628 versus 3,402).

In quarter three of 2023, the areas with the most notifications continued to be London in the North East, Yorkshire, the Humber, and West Midlands.

Increases were reported in London (6.5%), North East (23.8%), North West (10.6%), West Midlands (11.4%), and Yorkshire and the Humber (15.5%).

In the UK, like many other countries, a version of the 100-year-old Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine is offered to children who are likely to spend time with someone with TB.

This includes babies who live in an area with high rates of TB or babies with parents or grandparents from a country with increased rates of TB.

The UKHSA stated in April 2023 that the BCG vaccination is particularly effective in protecting young children against the rarer severe forms of TB, such as TB meningitis.

BCG vaccines contain a weakened form of the bacteria that causes TB. Because it is weakened, it doesn't cause TB, but it helps children develop TB immunity.

A version of the BCG vaccine is no longer offered in secondary schools in the UK.

In the United States, the USAID leads the government's global TB Strategy 2023–2030 efforts.

The incidence of reported TB decreased gradually from 1993 to 2019, reaching 2.7 cases per 100,000 persons in 2019. Incidence substantially declined in 2020 to 2.2, coinciding with the recent pandemic.

However, the U.S. CDC reported on March 23, 2023, that TB cases increased by 5% in 2022, with 60 states, the District of Columbia, and territories provisionally reporting 8,248 TB cases.

In 2022, 73% of TB cases occurred among non–U.S.-born persons, compared with 72% in 2021.

California and Texas lead the U.S. in reporting TB cases.

Recent data indicates TB rates are accelerating in certain Texas cities (Dallas, Ft. Worth, Hidalgo County, Houston, San Antonio) in 2023.

In 2022, 1,097 TB cases were reported in Texas, a 9.9% increase, with Harris Country (Houston) reporting the most TB cases (267).

In 2022, 50 Texans died of TB.

As of October 30, 2023, there are over 16 BCG vaccine versions offered globally, with about 17 vaccine candidates in development. When authorized, the TICE® BCG version is administered in the U.S.

Sub Title:

London tuberculosis cases increase in 2023

References:

Official Statistics National quarterly report of tuberculosis in England: Quarter 3, 2023 provisional data

TB, BCG vaccine and your baby

Where in Texas is TB Found?

US CDC MMWR - Tuberculosis — United States, 2022

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BCG, tuberculosis, vaccinations

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Thursday, November 2, 2023 - 13:00

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England Monthly cumulative number of TB notifications 2023

$9 Billion RSV Vaccine Market Share Battle Begins

Donald Hackett — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 20:14:56 +0000

Reviewer:

Robert Carlson, MD

After several years of development, various countries will offer infants, pregnant women, and seniors therapeutic options to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in 2023.

Driven by recent governmental authorizations, sales of RSV drugs are estimated to surpass $9 billion by 2029, a sizeable increase from the $1 billion forcasted by GlobalData plc in 2023.

However, this forecast may change since each RSV season's duration is a variable. In the U.S., RSV seasons generally start in Florida.

According to this leading data and analytics company, May 2023 saw the world's first approval of two RSV vaccines, Arexvy™ and Abrysvo™.

The U.S. CDC now recommends that adults 60 and older may receive an RSV vaccine using shared clinical decision-making.

Additionally, AstraZeneca's Beyfortus™ monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy was recently approved.

Jasper Morley, Drugs Intelligence Analyst at GlobalData, commented in a press release on July 24, 2023, "Until recently, there were no approved prophylactic treatments available."

"Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2023, GSK's Arexvy and Pfizer's Abrysvo are subunit vaccines indicated for preventing lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in individuals aged 60 and over."

"Including Moderna's mRNA-1345 and AstraZeneca's Beyfortus, the four therapies will make up 90% of total forecast sales in 2029 and are the main drivers of the significant increase in the global RSV market."

As of July 24, 2023, other RSV vaccine candidates are conducting late-stage clinical trials.

Following U.S. and E.U. approval in May and June 2023, respectively, Arexvy is projected to climb steadily and emerge as a market leader, according to GlobaldData's Sales and Forecast tool.

This vaccine is forecast to retain the top spot over seven years, ultimately generating over a quarter of total global RSV market sales, with just over $2.5 billion in 2029.

Despite receiving U.S. approval in May, Abrysvo is still awaiting E.U. approval. It is forecast to achieve sales of $1.7 billion, securing third place behind Moderna's mRNA-1345 vaccine.

This mRNA vaccine candidate is expected to launch in 2024 and experience exponential growth to reach sales of $2.4 billion in 2029.

After receiving E.U. approval late last year and U.S. approval on July 17, 2023, Beyfortus is set to reach global sales of $1.27 billion. This mAb is the world's second treatment indicated for disease prevention in infants.

Morley concludes: "With the leading four RSV treatments all indicated prophylactically and eager to establish themselves before the fall season, the RSV market is poised to become a major pharmaceutical battleground over the next seven years."

"Fierce rivalry is to be expected, and the prospect of additional drug approvals, including geographical and maternal vaccinations, will grant treatments a competitive edge and a favorable position in the market."

According to the U.S. CDC, RSV is a common infectious disease of the lungs and respiratory tract that can cause further health problems such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Although infections in healthy children and adults are less severe, certain patient groups, such as children with lung disease, the elderly, or the immunocompromised, may experience life-threatening symptoms.

Sub Title:

RSV vaccines and antibody therapy approved in 2023

References:

Preventative measures set to battle for RSV market domination, says GlobalData

US CDC RSV 2023

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Google News Keywords:

RSV, vaccinations

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Fact checked:

Monday, July 24, 2023 - 17:30

Image Caption:

GlobaldData plc RSV vaccine forecast trends July 24, 2023