Novel Polio Vaccine Matches Traditional in Immune Response
The novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) induced intestinal mucosal immune responses comparable to those induced by the traditional Sabin monovalent oral polio vaccine type 2 (mOPV2) across different age groups, with the strongest responses observed in infants.
METHODOLOGY:
The novel nOPV2 is a more genetically stable vaccine and carries a lower risk of reverting to neurovirulence than mOPV2 and has been deployed to interrupt vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 outbreaks.
Researchers compared intestinal mucosal immune responses induced by the first dose of nOPV2 and mOPV2 across different age groups: Infants aged 18-22 weeks, children aged 1-4 years, and adults aged 18-50 years.
They included participants from four clinical trials: 47 infants, 47 children, and 66 adults enrolled in the nOPV2 trials, and 42 infants, 46 children, and 100 adults in the mOPV2 control trials.
They used serum samples collected on day 0 (the day of the nOPV2 or mOPV2 challenge) and on day 28 to measure poliovirus type 2-specific serum neutralization.
They used stool samples collected daily for the first 10 days and then weekly from day 14 to day 28 for the evaluation of viral shedding.
TAKEAWAY:
Overall, both nOPV2 and mOPV2 induced similar intestinal poliovirus type 2-specific neutralization and immunoglobulin A responses on day 14 across all age groups, with no significant differences observed between the two vaccines.
Among OPV2-naive participants who received nOPV2, an age-related decline in response rates was observed: 82% of infants, 61% of children, and 25% of adults showed detectable poliovirus type 2-specific neutralization on day 14.
Among children, nOPV2 recipients showed higher viral shedding rates than mOPV2 recipients (92% vs 44%; P < .0001), potentially due to differences in prior vaccine exposure; however, no differences in viral shedding rates were observed among adults or infants.
< .0001), potentially due to differences in prior vaccine exposure; however, no differences in viral shedding rates were observed among adults or infants. Adults with prior OPV2 exposure showed lower viral shedding rates than OPV2-naive adults (20% vs 82%; P < .0001) when challenged with nOPV2, despite similar neutralizing activity and immunoglobulin A responses.
IN PRACTICE:
'This study's findings affirm the utility of nOPV2 as an important tool to address the ongoing cVDPV2 [type 2 circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus] outbreaks,' the study authors wrote.
SOURCE:
The study was led by Audrey Godin, MD, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, England. It was published online on April 30, 2025, in The Lancet Microbe .
LIMITATIONS:
A significant limitation was the time gap between the mOPV2 trials conducted in 2015-2016 and the nOPV2 trials conducted in 2018-2019. The lack of stool samples after day 14 prevented the study of long-term mucosal immunity. Additionally, as the study focused on fully vaccinated healthy infants, young children, and adults, the results may not be generalizable to immunodeficient individuals, older children, adolescents, unvaccinated or incompletely immunized individuals, or populations in countries with different socioeconomic conditions.
DISCLOSURES:
This study was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development. The authors declared having no conflicts of interest.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
8 hours ago
- Forbes
Colon Cancer Cases Are Rising. Here's How To Get Screened.
Photo of person getting colon cancer screening Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It typically begins as a small growth of tissue called a polyp in the lining of the colon or rectum. While not all polyps become cancerous, most colon cancers start as polyps, making early detection and removal critical. Fortunately, colon cancer is highly preventable and survivable. Regular screening plays a key role in identifying and removing precancerous polyps and early-stage cancers, when treatment is most effective. In fact, 9 out of 10 people survive when colon cancer is found early. Without screening, undetected cancers can progress to advanced stages, such as Stage III and IV, which are associated with poorer outcomes. Colorectal cancer is projected to claim 53,000 lives in 2025. Understanding your colon cancer screening options will allow you to make informed choices alongside your clinician. The American Cancer Society now recommends that individuals at average risk begin regular colon cancer screening at age 45, a shift from the previous benchmark of 50. The lowered screening age reflects rising rates of colon cancer in younger adults and historically low screening compliance for older adults. You may need to start earlier than 45 if you have: As an example, if your sibling was diagnosed with Stage 1 colon cancer at age 40, you wouldn't wait until 45 for your first colonoscopy. Instead, you'd start 10 years before their diagnosis—at age 30. Given how risk factors change one's initial screening age it is of critical importance for individuals to know their personal and family history when speaking with their clinician about initial screening. Reminder on to do list to schedule a colonoscopy 1. Colonoscopy What it is: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. If polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure. 'A colonoscopy is the gold standard and most preferred method because we can examine the entire colon, locate where the early growths (polyps) are, and remove them on the spot. This is what makes a colonoscopy a cancer prevention procedure," says Dr. Austin Chiang, Gastroenterologist and author of Gut: An Owner's Guide. Other details: This procedure requires patients to undergo preparation (e.g. dietary modifications and laxatives) beforehand to clear the colon so that there is adequate visualization. Since it is performed under sedation most people experience little to no discomfort and have no memory of the exam. The entire process usually takes less than an hour. 2. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy What it is: A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines only part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon, where colorectal cancer is commonly found. 'Some prefer this method because it doesn't require drinking a full bowel prep, but the tradeoff is that most of the colon is left unexamined," says Chiang. Other details: Flexible sigmoidoscopy often uses lighter sedation or none at all. Some patients may experience mild cramping during the approximately 20-minute procedure. While less comprehensive than a full colonoscopy, it can be a more convenient option for some. 3. CT Colonography What it is: A CT scan that produces 3D images of the colon and rectum to identify abnormalities. However, 'if any abnormalities are found, a traditional colonoscopy is still required for further evaluation or removal, ' says Chiang. Other details: It exposes patients to a low dose of radiation and is best at detecting larger polyps (>1cm). Thus smaller polyps may go undetected. 4. Capsule Endoscopy (e.g. Pill Endoscopy) Camera capsule for intestinal examination What it is: A swallowable capsule with a tiny camera that takes thousands of pictures as it travels through the digestive tract. 'Capsule endoscopy can be used to visualize the colon only after incomplete or inadequate colonoscopy. Like other non-invasive tests, including CT colonography, no intervention can be performed during the test,' says Chiang. Other details: Capsule endoscopy is painless and does not require sedation, but preparation is similar to that for a colonoscopy. The images are transported to an external wearable device and the capsule does not need to be returned. This test's accuracy can vary based on preparation of bowel. It cannot remove polyps. 5. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) What it is: A stool test that detects hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which may signal cancer. 'A FIT test is done annually, and is designed to detect hidden blood coming from the colon. It is a noninvasive colorectal cancer detection test, designed to detect colorectal cancer," says Dr. Sophie Balzora, Gastroenterologist at NYU. Other details: FIT does not require any bowel preparation or dietary restrictions, making it a more convenient option. However, it cannot detect precancerous polyps and must be completed annually to remain effective. 6. Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test What it is: Similar to FIT but uses a different chemical method to detect blood in the stool. 'This has essentially fallen out of favor. There are better screening detection tests available for average-risk individuals," says Balzora. Other details: This test may require dietary changes before stool sample collection. It is recommended annually but is less accurate and largely outdated. 7. Stool DNA Test (e.g. Cologuard) What it is: Stool DNA test combines FIT with a DNA test to detect cancer-related DNA mutations in stool. 'It is done every 3 years assuming a negative test. It, too, is designed to detect colorectal cancer, and not the precancerous growths, or polyps, ' says Balzora. Other details: It requires no dietary restrictions ahead of giving a stool sample. However, positive results necessitate follow-up with a colonoscopy. Colon cancer screening is not a one time event. It needs to be repeated to monitor for interval change in the colon. However, the frequency of screening is variable. 'If someone has many precancerous polyps, even one large polyp (over 1 cm—about the size of a pea), or polyps with certain microscopic features, they are recommended to come in sooner for their next colonoscopy than someone at average risk or with no prior polyps,' says Balzora. Regular screening for colon cancer is a powerful tool in reducing the incidence and mortality associated with the disease. While the gold standard test is a colonoscopy, the right test for you depends on your risk level, personal preferences, and access to testing. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option and timing. The most important point is to not delay screening.
Health Line
9 hours ago
- Health Line
Tips for Avoiding Dangerous Allergic Reactions
The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to know your triggers and avoid them whenever possible. It's also important to carry epinephrine and know what to do if you have a reaction. The job of your immune system is to protect you from outside invaders like viruses and bacteria. But your immune system sometimes produces antibodies in response to substances that are not harmful at all, such as certain foods or medications. This immune system response to a usually harmless irritant or allergen is called an allergic reaction. Most allergies are not severe — they're just annoying. Common symptoms include itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. Avoiding allergic reactions The only sure way to prevent a severe allergic reaction is to completely avoid your triggers. This may sound like a nearly impossible task, but there are several ways to reduce your risk. The steps you can take to protect yourself depend on the type of allergy you have. The most common severe allergies are those to: insect bites and stings foods medications Avoiding insect bites and stings When you're allergic to insect venom, outdoor activities can become stressful. Here are some tips to help prevent bites and stings: Avoid wearing fragrant perfumes, deodorants, and lotions. Always wear shoes when walking outdoors. Avoid drinking soda from a can since insects can become trapped inside. Avoid wearing bright, patterned clothing. Cover food when eating outside. Avoiding medication reactions Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about any drug allergies you have. If you have a penicillin allergy, they might tell you to avoid taking similar antibiotics, such as amoxicillin (Moxatag). If the drug is necessary — such as a contrast dye for a CT scan — your doctor might prescribe a corticosteroid or antihistamines before administering the drug. Certain types of drugs are more likely to cause severe allergic reactions, including: Avoiding food reactions Avoiding food allergens can be difficult if you don't prepare everything you eat yourself. When at a restaurant, ask detailed questions about the ingredients in the food, and don't be afraid to ask for substitutions. When buying packaged food, read labels carefully. Most packaged foods now have warnings on the label if they contain common allergens. When eating at a friend's house, be sure to tell them about any food allergies ahead of time. Common food allergies Many common food allergens can cause severe reactions in certain people. Some of them are used as ingredients in a wide variety of foods. Examples include: milk eggs soy wheat Other foods can be dangerous because of the risk of cross contamination, which occurs when foods come into contact with an allergen before you consume them. Potential sources of cross contamination include: fish shellfish peanuts tree nuts Anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a life threatening allergic reaction that can occur immediately after you're exposed to an allergen. It affects your whole body. Various tissues throughout your body release histamines and other chemicals, causing dangerous symptoms such as: narrowed airways and difficulty breathing a sudden drop in blood pressure shock swelling of your face or tongue vomiting or diarrhea chest pain heart palpitations slurred speech loss of consciousness Risk factors Though anaphylaxis is hard to predict, certain risk factors can increase your risk of a severe allergic reaction, including: a history of anaphylaxis a history of allergies or asthma a family history of severe allergic reactions If you've had a severe reaction at least once, you're more likely to experience anaphylaxis in the future. Other ways to stay safe Avoiding any known triggers is the best way to prevent severe allergic reactions, but they may sometimes occur despite your best efforts. Here are some ways to help yourself in the event of a severe allergic reaction: Make sure friends and family know about your allergies and know what to do in an emergency. Wear a medical ID bracelet that lists your allergies. Never participate in outdoor activities alone if you have a severe insect allergy. Carry an epinephrine auto-injector or a bee sting kit at all times. Put 911 on speed dial and keep your phone with you. Takeaway Knowing your allergy triggers and avoiding them as much as possible is the best way to reduce your risk of a severe allergic reaction. However, depending on your allergy type, you might not always be able to avoid allergen exposure. It's important that you know how to use epinephrine and carry it with you at all times. You also need to tell people about your allergies and ensure that your loved ones and others you spend time with know how to help you if you have a reaction.
Health Line
9 hours ago
- Health Line
Cold and Flu Home Remedies
There is no cure for a cold or the flu, but a bowl of chicken soup or a cup of hot ginger tea with honey can help manage the symptoms. Some home remedies, such as vitamin C, may slightly reduce the length of time you are sick. Body aches, fever, chills, and nasal congestion can make you feel miserable. While home remedies can't cure a cold or the flu, they can help relieve symptoms — such as body aches, fever, chills, nasal congestion — during your recovery. But, if symptoms don't improve or you have trouble breathing, rapid heartbeat, faintness, or any severe symptoms, it's best to seek medical help. Here, find out what cold and flu remedies you can try at home. 1. Chicken soup There is no scientific proof that chicken soup can cure a cold or flu or speed up recovery, but its ingredients contain nutrients that support your immune system. It's also a comforting food that provides hydration and may help you feel better overall. There is also some evidence that the nutrients in chicken soup may slow the movement of neutrophils in your body. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that helps protect your body from infection. When they're moving slowly, they stay more concentrated in the areas of your body that most need them. This may contribute to healing. Try this recipe for chicken soup. You'll need chicken, carrots, celery, and an onion. Alternatively, consider bone broth, which may also have health benefits. If you're using canned soup, opt for low sodium soup varieties. 4. Garlic Garlic contains the compound allicin, which has antimicrobial and possibly antiviral properties. Adding garlic to your diet might reduce the severity of cold symptoms. According to some research, it might even help you avoid getting sick in the first place. More research is needed into the potential cold-fighting benefits of garlic, but adding more garlic to your diet probably won't hurt. Can you eat raw garlic? 5. Echinacea Native Americans have long used the herb and root of the echinacea plant for medicinal purposes. Its active ingredients include flavonoids, chemicals that have many therapeutic effects on the body. For example, flavonoids can boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. Evidence indicates echinacea may help prevent a cold but is unlikely to shorten it. One 2020 study suggests that taking echinacea may help treat common cold symptoms in children. 6. Vitamin C Vitamin C is an antioxidant that plays many important roles in your body, including supporting the immune system. Good dietary sources of vitamin C include: citrus fruits red peppers green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli Adding fresh lemon juice to hot tea with honey may reduce phlegm when you're sick. Drinking hot or cold lemonade may also help. Vitamin C in the diet or as supplements is unlikely to prevent a cold, but some evidence suggests it may improve symptoms and may slightly shorten the time a cold lasts. Can vitamin C prevent or cure a cold? 7. Probiotics Probiotics are 'friendly' bacteria and yeast that are present in your body, some foods, and supplements. They can help keep your gut and immune system healthy and may reduce your chance of getting sick with an upper respiratory infection, as well as how long the infection lasts. However, more studies are needed. Probiotic yogurt may benefit your immune system as well as providing protein and calcium. Look for products that list live bacteria on the label. 8. Salt water gargle Gargling with salt water may help prevent upper respiratory infections. It may also decrease the severity of cold symptoms, for instance, by easing sore throat pain and nasal congestion. A saltwater gargle can reduce and loosen mucus, which contains bacteria and allergens. To try this remedy at home: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a full glass of water. Swish it around your mouth and throat. Spit it out. What other uses are there for a saltwater gargle? 9. Saline nasal irrigation Using a saline spray or a neti pot may help relieve nasal congestion with a cold, and it might help with some symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection. However, be sure to use only distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water and to wash a neti pot thoroughly between uses. Not doing so could introduce microbes that could lead to potentially serious infections. 10. Topical ointments Ointments containing camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, such as VapoRub, may reduce a nighttime cough. One or two dabs before bed can help open air passages and help improve: congestion sleep coughing Use it up to 3 times in every 24 hours. VapoRub is not suitable for children under 2 years, and ask your doctor before using it on older children. 11. Essential oils Some essential oils can help manage the symptoms of a cold, flu, and other respiratory conditions. This is due to their microbial, pain-relieving, or anti-inflammatory properties. Examples include: eucalyptus peppermint (menthol) Frankincense thyme tea tree Use a diffuser or add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath. How can essential oils help when you have the flu? While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn't monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It's important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand's products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. 12. Humidity Increased humidity may help reduce dryness and inflammation in the nose and throat. A humidifier in your bedroom or elsewhere in your home may help you feel more comfortable. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil might also help relieve congestion. For the same effect without a humidifier, take a long shower or linger in a steamy bathroom. Remember, the water used in humidifiers needs to be changed daily to stop mold and other fungi from growing. Also, when it comes to children, it is safer to use a cool-mist humidifier. 13. Elderberry Some studies suggest that elderberry supplements may help relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections and flu. However, more research is needed. 14. Warm baths Sometimes, you can reduce a child's fever by giving them a warm — but not hot — sponge bath. Warm baths may also help reduce cold and flu symptoms in adults. Can you treat a cold with a detox bath? 15. Boost your immune system Boosting your immune system probably won't help if you already have the flu, but it can protect you from other bouts and more severe symptoms in the long term. Tips include: getting at least 7 hours of sleep at night following a varied and nutritious diet getting regular exercise follow guidelines for flu vaccinations Optum Perks is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. Learn more.
