News

Actions

New Zika vaccine about to be tested in humans

Posted at 10:38 AM, Jun 21, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-21 10:31:36-04

PLYMOUTH, PA - There's a new weapon in the war on the Zika virus. A vaccine will be tested in humans soon, according to the drug maker Inoviio Pharmaceuticals in Pennsylvania.

The new Zika vaccine is actually called "GLS-5700," and it comes from the same folks who brought us an Ebola vaccine awhile back.

The company says 40 healthy volunteers will test the new Zika drug, and if all goes well another round of testing will begin on people who actually have the Zika virus.

But the World Health Organization claims we could still be several years away from the vaccine being ready for the public.

So, what are supposed to do in the meantime? Well, it sounds like avoiding mosquito bites at all costs is the best plan, especially since Zika isn't the only thing to worry about.

As one researcher put it, "The Dengui, Chikungunya, and West Nile viruses are also spread by mosquitoes."

At this rate, mosquitoes might just be the biggest threat facing mankind!

At least, the World Health Organization might say so since they have declared a public health emergency over the Zika threat, and they say the virus is "spreading explosively" since it is already in 50 countries and territories worldwide!

So, until that new Zika drug comes out, better get some good bug spray and fast!