How does the new nasal spray prevent the flu?

The nasal spray contains broad-spectrum antibodies designed to trap influenza viruses in the nasal cavity, preventing them from entering the body.

What results have been seen in early trials of the flu spray?

Initial trials in mice and monkeys successfully prevented infection, and early human trials showed the spray to be safe.

Could this nasal spray replace flu vaccines?

The experimental spray could theoretically provide wider, more rapid protection without requiring annual reformulation, but extensive clinical trials are still needed to confirm its effectiveness in people.

Home / Health / Nasal Spray Could End Flu Season Forever

Nasal Spray Could End Flu Season Forever

6 Feb

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Summary

A nasal spray with broad-spectrum antibodies targets flu viruses.
Experimental spray successfully prevented infection in mice and monkeys.
Initial human trials showed the spray was safe and effective.

Nasal Spray Could End Flu Season Forever

Dutch biotech firm Leyden Laboratories, in partnership with Harvard University, is pioneering a novel nasal spray designed to combat influenza. This innovative spray contains a broad-spectrum antibody engineered to trap flu viruses within the nasal passages, thereby preventing them from entering the body.

Preclinical studies demonstrated the spray's efficacy in mice and monkeys, successfully preventing infection. Subsequent trials involving 143 healthy volunteers indicated that the spray is safe for use, with participants maintaining elevated antibody levels in their noses through twice-daily applications.

The antibody has proven effective in laboratory settings against both human and certain animal flu strains. This broad activity is particularly significant given the continuous mutation of influenza viruses, which necessitates annual vaccine reformulations and often results in incomplete protection.