LepVax
another step closer in the long journey towards a vaccine
In 2002 the search began for a leprosy-specific vaccine. It was named LepVax and our partners American Leprosy Mission took the lead in the research and hard work to develop and deliver this vaccine. We are delighted toshare that LepVax is moving to the next phase of trials (phase 1b).Although this has taken a long time so far the hope of an effective vaccine would be absolutely transformative to stopping the spread of leprosy.
In order to defeat leprosy and stop transmission from person to person a game changing innovation was needed. An effective vaccine can prevent leprosy taking hold, stopping the spread of this awful disease and help the populations where leprosy is spreading rapidly.
It has been a long journey and we are so thankful for the courage and perseverance of the researchers to continue on. In the world of medical research funding for projects can be hard to come by, especially for a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) like leprosy. When the Covid-19 Pandemic hit, western governmentsopened their treasuries. Hundreds of Billions of Pounds was very quickly released to find a vital vaccine, which was delivered in record time.The funding and urgency for an NTD like leprosy has not been to the same scale as the response to Covid-19. This has been a long and slow journey, with small fundingscraped together and many delays and obstacles in the way.But the goal at the end is worth the journey. Although it is still some years before the vaccine will be available where it is needed it is important to mark this significant step forward.The mission to find a leprosy specific vaccine is a global mission. American Leprosy Mission are taking the lead, with many partners supporting them. The Leprosy Mission has made a contribution as well as sharing knowledge and resource. We are so thankful they are using their resources and energy towards this difficult task. A vaccine will benefit every country and cause seeking to defeat leprosy and stoptransmission of the disease. Please pray for all those working on the vaccine, for those leading the trial and for the patients involved. There is still a long way to go before licenses, production and approval. Pray for a quick and smooth experience for all involved and that the results could be as good as we have been hoping for.
The future we walk towards is a world without leprosy. A vaccine is a vital step closer to that destination, thank you for standing with those affected by leprosy inprayer and continuing to support
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