Vaccine patch the ‘key’ to fighting next pandemic

A device invented by Australian scientists which delivers doses of lifesaving vaccines in ten seconds through a skin patch has been given a major cash injection.

A needle-free COVID-19 vaccination could be possible, with University of Queensland scientists successfully protecting mice from the virus by administering a US-developed vaccine candidate with a ‘patch’.

A device invented by Australian scientists which delivers doses of lifesaving vaccines in 10 seconds through a patch applied to the skin rather than by needle could be a key to fighting the next global pandemic.

Queensland-based company Vaxxas developed the vaccine-delivering technology, called the high-density micro-array patch, which is shaped like a “hockey puck” and delivers the medicine via microscopic “projections” that make contact with the skin.

Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations in Norway has announced a major investment of $6.4m in funding to Vaxxas to investigate if the technology can be used on mRNA vaccines.

The HD-MAP has gone through three Phase 1 studies including for Covid-19, influenza, measles and rubella and has two others under way, meaning it could be ready for market within three to five years.

Vaxxas has also received $22m from the US government to develop a pandemic influenza vaccine which can be quickly and easily distributed.

Vaxxas chief executive David Hoey said the HD-MAP required only 10 seconds to deliver the vaccine and the technology would allow health authorities to administer and transport vaccines quickly, including in developing countries.

“It changes the way medicine is delivered in a dramatic way,” Mr Hoey said.

The “vaccine-agnostic” patch can remain “stable” and safe and effective to use when kept at 40C for a year.