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Highlights
- Vaxxas secures $7.2M program approval for needle-free vaccine development.
- Technology allows vaccine storage at room temperature for better accessibility.
- Collaboration with SK Bioscience targets Japanese encephalitis virus.
Brisbane-based biotechnology company Vaxxas (OneVentures-backed) has gained approval to advance its groundbreaking vaccine delivery technology with a $7.2 million program funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation (CEPI). This innovative initiative aims to improve global vaccine access through needle-free, temperature-stable solutions.
A Game-Changer in Vaccine Storage
Vaxxas’ proprietary patch technology addresses one of the key challenges in global vaccination efforts—temperature-sensitive storage requirements. Unlike conventional vaccines requiring ultra-cold storage, Vaxxas’ patches maintain stability at standard refrigerator temperatures (2°C–8°C) and room temperature (25°C) for at least 12 months. They can also remain stable at higher temperatures (40°C) for over a month.
Having tested its patch technology in early trials involving more than 500 participants for vaccines including Covid-19, seasonal flu, measles, and rubella, Vaxxas is positioned to redefine vaccine distribution in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
Global Collaboration with SK Bioscience (KRX:302440)
The latest funding supports a collaboration between Vaxxas and global vaccine developer SK Bioscience (KRX:302440) to create a vaccine for the Japanese encephalitis virus. This partnership aims to resolve the logistical barriers posed by current vaccines requiring costly and complex cold-chain storage systems. By delivering room-temperature-stable vaccines, this technology could dramatically enhance vaccine distribution in remote regions and developing countries.
The project, scheduled to commence in early 2025, is a pivotal step in CEPI's mission to ensure equitable vaccine access worldwide.
Visionaries Behind the Innovation
Established in 2011 as a spinout from The University of Queensland, Vaxxas is backed by prominent investors, including OneVentures Innovation Fund I, Brandon Capital Partners, US-based HealthCare Ventures, and The University of Queensland. This robust support underscores confidence in the transformative potential of Vaxxas’ technology.
Voices from Leaders
Vaxxas CEO David Hoey emphasized the broader impact of their innovation, stating it offers a practical solution to enhance global vaccine access by removing reliance on ultra-cold storage systems.
CEPI’s acting executive director, Dr. Raafat Fahim, added that the success of such alternative vaccine technologies could significantly advance efforts to combat infectious diseases by addressing accessibility challenges faced by underserved populations.
By solving critical challenges in vaccine delivery and distribution, Vaxxas is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of global healthcare accessibility.
