Pfizer and BioNTech begin Phase I trials of an mRNA-based combination vaccine to protect against influenza and COVID-19. The vaccine dose was already given to the first participant in the US. The study is to assess the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of the preparation.
Clinical trials with a combination vaccine against influenza and Covid-19 have started
Published Nov. 4, 2022 12:31
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The vaccine candidate combines Pfizer's mRNA-based quadrivalent influenza vaccine, currently in Phase III clinical trials, and a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the Omikron variant.
- The flexibility and speed of mRNA technology production have shown that it is well suited to other respiratory diseases. A combination vaccine could simplify vaccination practices against these two respiratory pathogens, potentially leading to better vaccine uptake for both diseases, said Dr. Annaliesa Anderson, Pfizer vice president and scientific director of vaccine research and development.
The research is conducted in the United States. It is to cover 180 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 64 years. The observation period for each participant will be six months in total.
