Flanders Red Cross advances research on nasal spray to prevent virus transmission
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Flemish Red Cross initiated research into a nasal spray to reduce virus transmission. Five years later, trials on laboratory animals have shown the spray to be highly effective, paving the way for human trials and trials on several viruses.
The spray is based on convalescent blood plasma from people who have recovered, which contains virus-specific antibodies. These antibodies could help protect vulnerable people from infection.
Faster response to pandemics
While vaccines and antiviral drugs remain the key to controlling viral outbreaks, professor Hendrik Feys, Director of Scientific Research at Red Cross Flanders, says a nasal spray derived from convalescent plasma could enable a faster response to future pandemics. It would offer protection to at-risk populations and frontline health workers, particularly in developing countries.
Previous trials have confirmed the spray's effectiveness against coronaviruses. The next phase will test its effect on other viruses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs. If results continue to be positive, human trials could begin by the end of the year, with a full evaluation expected within three years.
Globally accessible
The technology could become globally accessible as plasma can be collected and processed locally, allowing for rapid deployment. Feys emphasises that this approach could serve as an interim solution before vaccines become available, especially in regions with limited access to vaccines.
The prospects for the technology are promising. While the nature of future pandemics remains uncertain, this research marks a significant step towards faster and more efficient virus containment strategies.
#FlandersNewsService | © IMAGEBROKER
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