UVRI Readies Bundibugyo Ebola Vaccine Trials

The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) is stepping up efforts to combat the Ebola Bundibugyo strain by planning early-stage trials for potential vaccines. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as there are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments for infections caused by this particular strain, which has previously led to outbreaks in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

During the UVRI’s 90th-anniversary celebrations, Director Professor Pontiano Kaleebu revealed that discussions are advanced for testing two candidate vaccines. One vaccine shares a similar design to the established Ebola Zaire vaccine, while the other, known as ChAdOx, was developed by researchers at the University of Oxford.

Beyond specific Bundibugyo vaccines, scientists at UVRI are also investigating the possibility of using existing Ebola vaccines, such as those for the Zaire and Sudan strains, to provide broader cross-protection. This aspect will primarily involve laboratory-based studies to assess the potential for a “prime boost” strategy.

Professor Kaleebu clarified that UVRI’s current focus includes vaccine development for COVID-19 and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). He noted that while COVID-19 cases have decreased, the virus remains a concern. The institute’s long history, dating back to 1936, has seen it identify numerous viruses, including West Nile, Zika, and Semliki Forest viruses.

UVRI scientists were instrumental in identifying the Ebola Bundibugyo strain during the 2007 outbreak. Although final characterization was completed with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention due to technological capacity at the time, UVRI’s collaborative role was critical. The Ministry of Health has commended UVRI for its ongoing contributions to disease surveillance and emergency response.

https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uvri-to-conduct-trials-for-ebola-bundibugyo-vaccines-5476234