Vaxart Announces Publication Demonstrating the Immunogenicity and Safety of its First-Generation Oral Pill Norovirus Vaccine Candidate in Elderly Adults

Core Insights - Vaxart's first-generation oral pill norovirus vaccine candidate demonstrates strong and durable antibody responses in elderly adults, indicating its potential effectiveness in a demographic that typically has reduced immune responses to traditional vaccines [1][2][3] Group 1: Study Findings - The Phase 1b trial published in Science Translational Medicine shows robust immunogenicity, with significant increases in serum anti-VP1 IgA and IgG in vaccinated cohorts compared to placebo [4] - The vaccine induced mucosal-homing antibody-secreting B cells and T cells, suggesting a protective mechanism against persistent infections [4] - Oral administration resulted in strong IgA responses in saliva and the nasal cavity, highlighting the vaccine's ability to generate mucosal immunity beyond the gastrointestinal tract [4] Group 2: Implications for Elderly Population - The study indicates that the oral vaccine may uniquely protect elderly individuals from severe norovirus outcomes, addressing the higher risk of morbidity in this age group [3][2] - Vaxart's oral vaccine platform could provide a safer alternative for older adults, as most approved mucosal vaccines are not recommended for them due to safety concerns [3] Group 3: Future Developments - Vaxart plans to initiate a Phase 1, open-label, dose-ranging clinical trial for its second-generation oral norovirus vaccine candidate in the first half of 2025 [5] - The company has previously reported a Phase 2 challenge study showing a statistically significant reduction in norovirus infection rates, further supporting the vaccine's potential [3]