British scientists at Cambridge University are developing a groundbreaking vaccine that aims to be effective against all coronaviruses, including those yet unidentified. This innovative jab is designed to induce immunity to fundamental components shared among various coronaviruses, potentially providing protection against future variants that evolve from these viruses.
Traditional vaccines often target very specific parts of a virus, which may become less effective as the virus mutates. In contrast, this new approach focuses on universal aspects of coronaviruses that remain constant despite mutations. Preliminary lab tests on mice have shown promising results, with the vaccine providing defense against SARS, COVID-19, and several coronaviruses known to transfer among bats.
Researcher Rory Hills emphasized the goal of the vaccine: to prepare for and protect against future coronavirus pandemics before they occur. The vaccine works by introducing the immune system to proteins common across various viruses, training it to recognize and combat any virus that carries these proteins.
Published in “Nature Nanotechnology,” the research suggests that this vaccine could be universally protective against most, if not all, coronaviruses. It could also be adapted to target specific viruses more precisely in the event of an outbreak.
Professor Mark Howarth of Cambridge University pointed out the urgent need to build on the success of the COVID-19 vaccines. He highlighted the critical need for advancements that surpass the achievements of the COVID-19 response to better prepare for future pandemics.
Additionally, information about the eligibility for a spring booster was provided, detailing priority groups and the updated vaccines available, which are designed to enhance protection against recent strains of the virus.
