NASAL VACCINE

NASAL VACCINE

Subject: Science & tech

Context: Recently, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation recommended granting permission for phase 1 human clinical trials for Bharat Biotech’s nasal COVID-19 vaccine, BBV154.

Concept:

About the Vaccine

• Bharat Biotech has partnered with Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis for a novel intranasal coronavirus vaccine (BBV154).
• Intranasal vaccines are vaccines that are administered through the nose to the mucosal layer.
• An intranasal vaccine stimulates a broad immune response – neutralizing IgG, mucosal IgA, and T cell responses.
• Immune responses at the site of infection (in the nasal mucosa) – essential for blocking both infection and transmission of COVID-19.
• So far, intranasal vaccination is being used only for influenza.
• However, it cannot be used on certain groups of people, particularly those who have compromised immune systems.

Vaccine Advantages

• The nasal route has excellent potential for vaccination due to the organized immune systems of the nasal mucosa.
• Non-invasive, Needle-free.
• Single dose regimen.
• Ease of administration – does not require trained health care workers.
• Elimination of needle-associated risks (injuries and infections).
• High compliance (Ideally suits for children’s and adults).
• Scalable manufacturing – able to meet global demand.