There are quite a few diseases for which vaccines are being developed. Some are in early research stages while others are already in clinical trials. Here are a few examples:
- Neonatal meningitis caused by Group B Streptococcus: The goal is to vaccinate the mother and her antibodies will cross the placenta to protect the newborn.
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): This virus causes lower respiratory tract infections in infants and is a common cause of hospitalization and death.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV): This is a common congenital infection in infants which can have long-term effects such as sensorineural hearing loss.
- Lyme disease caused by Borrelia spp.: Lyme disease, spread by a tick bite, is prevalent throughout the U.S. and Europe and can cause multiple symptoms including neurological and arthritic problems.
Another area under investigation is vaccines for older adults. Current research is investigating immunosenescence and how to induce better immune responses in people over 60.
