In a groundbreaking global first, Uganda’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, has launched the first-ever clinical efficacy trial for a vaccine against the Ebola Sudan virus. This marks the first clinical trial to assess the vaccine’s efficacy during an active Ebola Sudan virus outbreak.
Key Highlights
- First Clinical Efficacy Trial: This is the first study designed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a vaccine against Ebola Sudan virus disease.
- Vaccine Provider – IAVI: The vaccine, developed by IAVI, has undergone trials for safety and immunogenicity before this efficacy study.
- Outbreak Context: The trial is being conducted during an ongoing outbreak, making it a significant milestone in Ebola research.
About Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)
- Severe and Often Fatal: Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a highly lethal illness affecting humans and primates.
- Transmission:
- The virus spreads from wild animals (e.g., fruit bats, porcupines, non-human primates) to humans.
- Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Contaminated surfaces and materials (bedding, clothing) also contribute to the spread.
- Historical Context:
- The first EVD outbreaks were reported in remote Central African villages near tropical rainforests.
- The 2014–2016 West Africa outbreak was the largest and most complex since the virus was discovered in 1976.
