Thanks to the FDA “Fast Track Program,” a Lyme Vaccine for Humans Could Be on the Horizon

While a Lyme vaccine for canines currently exists, and a human Lyme vaccine came and went in the 90’s, scientists have been diligently working towards a new human Lyme vaccine to address the rapidly growing rate of the tick-borne disease. With an average of 16.4 Lyme disease cases per 100,000 people (well above the national average of 7.9), Minnesota stands to benefit tremendously from a human Lyme disease vaccine coming to market.

From the first stages of vaccine development through testing and human trials, many years can pass before a new vaccine becomes available. But there is hope for a new Lyme vaccine that has been given “fast-track” status by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).

What Does FDA Fast-Track Mean?

When a new medicine, therapy, treatment, or vaccine is given the expedited fast-track status, it means the FDA will accept less data for FDA approval. Once the vaccine goes on the market, studies will continue.

Lyme Vaccine FDA Fast Track

According to Newsday, the new Lyme vaccine, VLA15, created by Valneva, appears to be effective against six of the most common types of the Lyme bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. With only 180 participants in a preliminary clinical trial so far, they will begin a larger clinical study early next year thanks to their fast-track status.

With the CDC estimating at least 300,000 cases of Lyme disease annually, despite their total confirmed landing around 30,000, a human Lyme vaccine cannot come fast enough. Until then, avoiding tick bites is the best method of Lyme prevention. When you’re out and about in untreated areas, be sure to follow our tick safety guidelines. But, if you are at home, enjoy your yard with less worry by contacting Mosquito Squad of the Twin Cities for tick control services. With our tick tubes and barrier treatment, you can enjoy 90% fewer ticks on your property. Call today!