Oxford Scientists Developing Bubonic Plague Vaccine

Scientists from the Oxford Vaccine Group are developing a vaccine for the bubonic plague, driven by fears of a potential superbug strain of Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for the disease. Historically, the plague has caused devastating pandemics, claiming around 200 million lives, yet there are currently no licensed plague vaccines in the UK, with antibiotics being the only treatment option. Recent trials on healthy adults indicate that the vaccine is safe and elicits an immune response, with results expected to be submitted for peer review soon. Experts emphasize the necessity for the UK to stockpile a bubonic plague vaccine due to the rising risk of antimicrobial resistance and the potential for pandemics. Although the current risk level in the UK is low, previous pandemics were exacerbated by person-to-person transmission after initial flea bites on rodents. The urgency for vaccine development is underscored by global health concerns, including the recent emergence of bird flu and other infectious diseases.