Room-temperature vaccine powder tested in Africa shows promise for wider use

Scientists have completed the first human trial of a vaccine that does not need refrigeration, using a powder made from the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine and the sugar trehalose. The formulation stays stable at ambient temperature and is mixed with water just before administration. Conducted in Africa, the trial showed the approach works in real patients, addressing the problem of vaccine spoilage that occurs when the cold chain is disrupted.

Around half of all vaccines are currently discarded each year for this reason. The technology was created by the British firm Stablepharma. A more extensive trial is slated to begin in the coming months, representing the final research step before possible rollout. The World Health Organization notes that a significant share of African children remain unvaccinated.