Oxford scientists have found a method of increasing the shelf life of vaccines, meaning costly refrigeration of drugs in warm climates may no longer be necessary.
The research involved drying the viral particles used in vaccinations on ‘special membranes’ in order to keep them stable over longer periods. While usually the drugs last for only a few weeks in warm climates, the scientists found that the methods used in the research could keep the ‘viral vectors’ used in vaccines usable at temperatures of up to 45˚C for several months.
The nhs choices website explained, “This development is potentially very useful as it may lead to improvements in the availability and effectiveness of vaccination programmes in areas of the world with fewer resources.”
