UK Set to Test World's First Norovirus Vaccine

Improve the News Foundation -
0:00
/1861

Facts

  • Pharmaceutical firm Moderna is set to test the world's first vaccine against norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug. The virus reportedly causes around 12K hospitalizations in the UK alone — and 685M cases of gastroenteritis globally — each year, especially during winters.[1][2]
  • Norovirus spreads via contact with infected people or through contaminated surfaces or food and water. Its symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, high temperature, severe abdominal pain, and aching limbs. The so-called 'winter vomiting bug' affects people of all ages.[3][4]
  • Moderna's mRNA technology-based jab reportedly targets three major strains of norovirus, a disease that can currently be treated only with intravenous fluids in severe cases. British Health Secretary Wes Streeting says it costs 'taxpayers around £100 million [nearly $130M] a year.'[4][1]
  • The testing will reportedly be done on around 25K adults in over six countries, including at 27 NHS hospitals and centers in England, Scotland, and Wales. It will enter the final stages of testing in the next two weeks, with researchers hoping it will show 65% or higher efficacy.[2][5]
  • Initial test results showed a 'strong immune response' and the new trial will see if it is effective against the virus itself and how long its effects last. Streeting said the vaccine's success could ease the 'pressure on the NHS and [keep] people well during the colder months.'[6][7]
  • Moderna hopes to submit a marketing application to regulators in 2026, with another review expected thereafter. The vaccine trial is part of the UKHSA's 'strategic ten-year partnership' with the company which also includes a new research, development, and manufacturing facility in the UK.[8]

Sources: [1]ITV News, [2]BBC News, [3]Independent, [4]GB News, [5]Daily Record, [6]Sky News, [7]Guardian and [8]The Times.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by New York Times. A norovirus vaccine will mark a crucial breakthrough. Norovirus's ability to spread rapidly in close quarters makes it a public health concern. With no current treatment and prevention reliant on hygiene, a vaccine would be a game-changer — potentially reducing the burden of outbreaks and preventing severe cases.
  • Narrative B, as provided by Independent. The increase in norovirus cases is a natural consequence of returning to normal social interactions after a long period of COVID-era cloistering. The human immune system needs exposure to common viruses to maintain strength. While a vaccine is always welcome, overreacting to a situation could lead to unnecessary panic and disruption of daily life.

Predictions