MHRA research advances needle-free Strep A vaccine

New research conducted by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health suggests a vaccine against group A streptococcus (Strep A) is nearing reality. The study, published in Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, highlights the potential for needle-free administration via the nose or under the tongue.

Strep A causes over 600 million infections annually, leading to approximately 500,000 deaths from complications such as scarlet fever and rheumatic heart disease. The proposed vaccine utilizes Generalised Modules for Membrane Antigens (GMMA) technology—tiny bubbles shed by bacteria—to act as both a carrier and an adjuvant.

By targeting mucosal surfaces where infection begins, the vaccine aims to generate strong immune responses at the site of entry as well as throughout the body. This approach could improve accessibility in low- and middle-income countries and help reduce antibiotic use to combat antimicrobial resistance.