Will an mRNA vaccine target the norovirus strain behind surging cases?
A fresh strain of norovirus is leading to a significant surge in cases in countries such as England, coinciding with the launch of a major study on an mRNA vaccine.
Written by Michael Le Page
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Transmission electron microscope image showing various components of the norovirus pathogen.
A worldwide clinical trial for an mRNA vaccine targeting norovirus is set to begin, with the goal of alleviating the public health challenges posed by the notorious "winter vomiting" virus. However, the trial has been made more difficult due to the rise of a new strain of norovirus, which is leading to a sharp increase in cases in various regions, including England.
"Regrettably, one of the most common strains is not included in that vaccine," explains Patrick Moore from the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Research, who is overseeing the UK segment of the trial. "The increase in cases is likely due to this..."
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