Wellcome responds to WHO recommendation of Ebola vaccine for clinical trials

Charlie Weller, Head of Vaccines at Wellcome, said: "As the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo shows no sign of slowing, the human toll continues to grow with communities facing the devastating consequences. We urgently need new tools to protect against the disease. The recommendation to evaluate Ervebo in clinical trials is an important step, offering hope that existing vaccine technology can increase our ability to protect against the Bundibugyo species with a safe, effective and accessible vaccine, and strengthen our preparedness for future outbreaks."

To note, Wellcome funded early-stage development and testing of Ervebo. Separately, Hilleman Laboratories - a joint venture between Wellcome and MSD - is funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to update the manufacturing of Ervebo to make it more affordable and thermostable.