First Human Trial of Lassa Fever Vaccine Begins in Oxford

Researchers at the University of Oxford have administered their experimental Lassa fever vaccine to the first human volunteer. This initial Phase 1 trial will assess the vaccine's safety and immune response in healthy participants. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is funding the study. A second Phase 1 trial is scheduled to begin in Ghana early next year. The World Health Organization classifies Lassa fever as a priority disease requiring urgent research. The illness, which can cause severe bleeding and organ failure, poses a significant epidemic threat in parts of West Africa.