VITN Blog Post #2: Clinical trial in progress testing the effects of using H5N1 vaccine with topical cream

At Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, a Phase 1 clinical trial is taking place. The clinical trial examines whether the topical imiquimod cream can boost an individual’s immune response to a H5N1 influenza vaccine that was designed for use in a potential pandemic. H5N1 is an avian influenza virus that is contracted by humans through direct or indirect contact with infected birds. Although it does not spread easily from human to human, like all influenza viruses, there is risk of the virus evolving, making it possible to become transmissible between people.

The imiquimod cream is typically used to treat genital warts and certain skin cancers. However, it also shows potential to boost the body’s immune response to the H5N1 vaccine. A previous study in Hong Kong that tested the cream’s use alongside the seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine showed hopeful results. Individuals generally tolerated the cream well and the participants who applied the cream before vaccination generated “significantly more robust immune responses” than the control groups.

The immune-boosting properties of imiquimod could prove critical in the future. In the event of an outbreak, the cream could stretch the supply of available H5N1 vaccines since fewer doses would be needed to achieve sufficient immunity, allowing for more people to be vaccinated. With the first clinical trial participant vaccinated this past June, investigators anticipate early student results by the end of the year.

To read in more detail about how the trial is being conducted, you can access the full article here: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/09/180906101347.htm

—Miao G.