The first volunteer has received a dose in a pioneering human trial of Oxford’s Lassa vaccine. This crucial step, announced by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), marks a significant advance in combating the deadly Lassa virus. The CEPI-funded study, led by the Oxford Vaccine Group, will assess vaccine safety and immune response.
Lassa fever, endemic in West Africa, has caused 995 confirmed cases and 184 deaths in Nigeria in 2025. The World Health Organisation prioritizes this virus due to its outbreak potential. Prof. Maheshi Ramasamy of Oxford Vaccine Group stated: “this study is a crucial step toward protecting vulnerable communities from the devastating impact of Lassa fever.”