
Exploring Current Developments in Measles Vaccines
Introduction
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, brain damage, and even death. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications. In recent years, researchers have been working on developing new and improved measles vaccines to combat the global resurgence of the disease.
The Global Resurgence of Measles
Despite the availability of safe and cost-effective vaccines, measles prevalence is increasing with a surge in cases in many regions of the world . According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 128,000 measles deaths globally in 2021, mostly among unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children under the age of 5 years . The ability of countries to ensure children receive both recommended doses of measles vaccine is a key indicator of global progress toward measles elimination and capacity to prevent the spread of the virus .
Recombinant Measles Virus as a New Perspective for Vaccination Against SARS-CoV-2
Research advances on the associated SARS-coronavirus-2 (CoV-2) may enable the scientific community to establish effective vaccines to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections by increasing understanding of viral pathogenesis. Measles virus (MV) expressing SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S) represents a promising class of biotherapeutic agents to combat this virus . The potential of such recombinant viruses has been well recognized for the treatment of many diseases.
Measles-Containing Vaccines (MCVs) Supply and Demand Update
An update on measles monovalent and measles and rubella combination vaccines, including supply, demand, and anticipated market development through 2025 has been published by UNICEF . The update provides new information on measles and measles and rubella combination vaccines, including supply, demand, and anticipated market developments through 2025. It highlights UNICEF’s efforts to continue improving demand forecast accuracy and ensure supply is available as countries respond to measles outbreaks and work to recover from the impact of COVID-19 on routine immunization coverage.
MMR Vaccine Potentially Effective Against Measles, Mumps and COVID-19
A measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine could be enhanced such that it makes one immune to multiple variant strains of the Covid-causing virus . The resulting new vaccine could then confer immunity against measles, mumps, and COVID-19. Scientists at The Ohio State University have called it the “MMS” vaccine candidate – for Measles, Mumps, and SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusion
Measles vaccination is crucial for preventing outbreaks and reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Current developments in measles vaccines are promising in terms of improving vaccine efficacy and accessibility. However, there are still some challenges with accuracy being a major concern. Research into new vaccines that can provide immunity against multiple diseases is ongoing. In conclusion, continued research into new vaccines will be essential for combating the global resurgence of measles.
Suggested readings: