One spray to fight coughs, colds and flu? Scientists test universal vaccine

International

RESEARCHERS in the United States have tested a single nasal spray vaccine that could protect against coughs, colds, flu and even some bacterial lung infections, and may also ease allergies.

Scientists at Stanford University tested the so-called universal vaccine in animals and say human trials are still needed. The findings, published in Science, have been described by experts as promising but still at an early stage, a report by BBC stated.

Unlike traditional vaccines, which target one specific infection, this approach leaves immune cells in the lungs on heightened alert so they can respond quickly to a wide range of viruses and bacteria. In animal experiments, protection lasted about three months and significantly reduced the amount of virus entering the body.

Professor Bali Pulendran of Stanford told the BBC that the vaccine generated broad protection not only against flu and Covid but also against other viruses, several bacteria and even some allergens.

Independent experts welcomed the research. Professor Daniela Ferreira of the University of Oxford said it could change how people are protected from common respiratory infections if human studies confirm the results.

However, scientists cautioned that it is not yet clear whether the same effect will be seen in people or how long protection would last. Researchers are planning further trials to assess safety and effectiveness.

The team said such a vaccine could complement existing shots and potentially provide short term protection at the start of winter or during the early stages of a future pandemic.(Georgia Olivar, USJ-R Comm Intern)