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A microneedle patch for measles and rubella vaccination: a game changer for achieving elimination
Mark R Prausnitz1, James L Goodson2, Paul A Rota2
1School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 311 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA.
Abstract:
While morbidity and mortality associated with measles and rubella (MR) have dramatically decreased, there are still >100000 estimated deaths due to measles and an estimated 100000 infants born with congenital rubella syndrome annually. Given highly effective MR vaccines, the primary barrier to global elimination of these diseases is low vaccination coverage, especially among the most underserved populations in resource-limited settings. In contrast to conventional MR vaccination by hypodermic injection, microneedle patches are being developed to enable MR vaccination by minimally trained personnel. Simplified supply chain, reduced need for cold chain storage, elimination of vaccine reconstitution, no sharps waste, reduced vaccine wastage, and reduced total system cost of vaccination are advantages of this approach. Preclinical work to develop a MR vaccine patch has proceeded through successful immunization studies in rodents and non-human primates. On-going programs seek to make MR vaccine patches available to support MR elimination efforts around the world.
Insights
Measles and rubella (MR) vaccines are effective, but low coverage hinders global elimination. Microneedle patch technology offers a promising alternative to injections, potentially increasing vaccination rates in underserved areas.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles and rubella (MR) cause significant global mortality and morbidity, including over 100,000 measles deaths and 100,000 congenital rubella syndrome cases annually.
- Despite highly effective vaccines, low vaccination coverage, particularly in resource-limited settings, remains the primary obstacle to disease elimination.
- Conventional hypodermic injection vaccination presents logistical challenges in underserved populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore microneedle patch technology as an alternative delivery method for MR vaccines.
- To address the limitations of conventional vaccination in achieving global MR elimination goals.
- To facilitate MR vaccination by minimally trained personnel in resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- Development of a measles and rubella (MR) vaccine incorporated into a microneedle patch.
- Preclinical immunization studies in relevant animal models (rodents and non-human primates).
- Evaluation of the feasibility and potential advantages of the microneedle patch system.
Main Results:
- Successful immunization demonstrated through preclinical studies in rodents and non-human primates.
- Microneedle patches offer potential advantages including simplified supply chains, reduced cold chain requirements, and elimination of sharps waste.
- The technology shows promise for overcoming barriers to vaccination in underserved populations.
Conclusions:
- Microneedle patch technology is a viable and advantageous approach for delivering MR vaccines.
- This innovation has the potential to significantly improve vaccination coverage and support global MR elimination efforts.
- Further development and implementation of MR vaccine patches are crucial for public health initiatives worldwide.
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