Uganda Tests New Ebola Vaccine

Scientists in Uganda have begun an early-stage trial of a candidate vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, as a deadly outbreak continues in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Trial examines safety and immune response

Researchers in Masaka, southern Uganda, are testing whether the experimental vaccine is safe and can trigger an appropriate immune response. The Bundibugyo strain currently has no licensed vaccine or effective treatment specifically approved for it.

Eugene Rizagira, an associate professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said the Phase One trial would primarily assess safety and the body’s immune response.

Oxford vaccine candidate under testing

The vaccine was developed at the University of Oxford. The study aims to recruit 110 volunteers, with each participant monitored for 12 months. Researchers hope to complete enrolment by November 2026.

Meanwhile, US biotechnology company Moderna is developing a separate Ebola vaccine using messenger RNA technology.

DR Congo prepares broader vaccine trial

The Democratic Republic of Congo is expected to begin a larger human trial to assess whether Ervebo, an existing vaccine effective against the Zaire strain, can also provide protection against the Bundibugyo strain.

The study is expected to incorporate vaccines specifically designed for Bundibugyo as they progress through development, offering further opportunities to assess potential protection against the strain driving the current outbreak.