Vaxxas HD-MAP to deliver vaccines directly to the skin

Company awarded US$5 million grant for clinical study of measles and rubella vaccination using Vaxxas’ high-density, micro-array patch.

The measles and rubella vaccine formulation used to coat the HD-MAP has been engineered to be stable at higher temperatures than required for needle/syringe vaccination. This improved thermal stability can reduce the cost and complexity of the cold distribution chain that is required for many conventional vaccines, enabling distribution of HD-MAP vaccines to parts of the world where refrigeration is unreliable or even nonexistent.

Professor David Durrheim, University of Newcastle and Chair of the Western Pacific Measles and Rubella Regional Verification Commission explained the need for new vaccine delivery methods that overcome the current limitations of needle and syringe vaccine delivery by skilled health professionals with reliable refrigeration is urgent.

The micro-array patches, could, according to Professor Durrheim be regarded as a potential “game-changer”.

The proprietary HD-MAP platform induces robust immune system activation by targeting relevant vaccine components to the abundant immunological cells immediately below the surface of the skin. In Vaxxas’ most recent clinical study evaluating performance using influenza vaccine, the HD-MAP using 1/6 dose induced similar immune response to full dose by needle and syringe.

Through the grant funding of the foundation, Vaxxas will optimize its HD-MAP measles and rubella vaccine in a number of important ways, including ensuring the vaccine is stable for a period at room temperature combined with a product design that will allow the vaccine to be administered by individuals with minimal to no formal medical training as may be necessary in certain countries and regions.