GlaxoSmithKline Offers Vaccine Booster to Research Groups

By Denise Roland

Vaccines giant GlaxoSmithKline PLC said Monday it would donate a vaccine-booster to groups racing to develop a shot against the new coronavirus.

Glaxo has developed a so-called adjuvant, which it uses in its seasonal flu shot, that can make a vaccine more effective, meaning that smaller doses are needed to achieve immunity.

Glaxo is working with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, the Norwegian nonprofit that is funding several of the groups trying to develop a new vaccine.

One of those groups, the University of Queensland, said it will use the Glaxo adjuvant as it develops its candidate vaccine.

CEPI Chief Executive Richard Hatchett said Glaxo's contribution has the potential to make more vaccine available more rapidly, by making a given supply of vaccine go farther and increasing the number of people who can benefit.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 02, 2020 19:26 ET (00:26 GMT)

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