Scientists have begun testing whether an existing Ebola vaccine could help protect against the Bundibugyo strain, as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) searches for ways to contain an outbreak that has killed thousands, according to figures provided in the outbreak update.
The research marks a new phase in the response to the disease, with the first participants receiving vaccinations in Bunia, in northeastern DRC.
The exercise is part of a study called TUMAINI, which means “hope” in Swahili. It seeks to establish whether vaccine candidates can offer protection against the Bundibugyo virus, for which no vaccine has been specifically approved.
Among the products being examined is Ervebo, a vaccine already authorised for use against the Zaire strain of Ebola. Its ability to protect against Bundibugyo Ebola remains uncertain, making the trial important in determining whether it could serve a wider role in future outbreaks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting the research, which is being led by the Congolese authorities. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the start of vaccinations on Friday, saying the study would help establish whether the candidates developed for the virus are effective.
The trial uses a shared research framework that allows scientists to assess several vaccine candidates for safety, effectiveness and the immune response they generate.
The initiative comes as the DRC continues to confront a major Ebola outbreak declared in May. Figures cited in the supplied report put infections at more than 9,700 and deaths above 4,600.
The outbreak has also raised regional concerns, with cases reported across parts of eastern, central and western Africa. The WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern as the situation developed.
The results of the TUMAINI study could help health authorities determine which vaccine options merit further development and use against Bundibugyo Ebola. Until evidence establishes their effectiveness, however, the trial should not be interpreted as confirmation that Ervebo protects against this strain.
