The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) has announced plans to begin trials for two potential vaccines targeting the Ebola Bundibugyo strain, which has previously caused outbreaks in Uganda and DR Congo.
Speaking during UVRI’s 90th anniversary celebrations in Kampala, Director Prof Pontiano Kaleebu said scientists are preparing for phase one and two trials amid concerns over the lack of an approved vaccine for the strain.
One vaccine is based on the Ebola Zaire model, while the second, called ChAdOx, was developed by Oxford University researchers. Scientists are also studying whether existing Ebola vaccines can offer broader protection against multiple strains.
Prof Kaleebu noted that UVRI continues to play a major role in global disease research, having identified over 40 virus strains, including Zika and West Nile viruses.
Health officials praised the institute for strengthening Uganda’s disease surveillance and outbreak response efforts.
