Under the tongue
Scientists have discovered a new needle-free way of vaccinating against flu – under the tongue! This is not only good news for needle-phobics but has wider implications for preparations against the impending pandemic. Needle immunisations require skilled professionals whereas a drop of vaccine placed under the tongue could potentially be performed by anyone.
Read more here.
Comments
It's a good news. I'm a needle-phobic. Whenver I go for injection, I shiver with fear. Yes, you are correct, needle immunisations require skilled professionals. In my childhood I experienced the pain of needle in the hands of inexperienced nurses. Thanks for the information.
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Vasu
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Posted by: Vasundhara | May 29, 2008 12:12 AM
There is an increasing interest in alternative delivery mechanisms for antigens, and many companies are developing needle-free approaches of transdermal and oral vaccination methods. Needle-free vaccinations offer the advantage of convenience, and remove the need for sharps, which can cause public health problems. Mechanisms for transdermal or oral delivery include needle-free devices that deliver solid or liquid formulations of vaccines. Oral delivery of protein antigens presents major challenges because of the strong natural barriers along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including stomach acid and proteases that can degrade these molecules. Moreover, the rate of absorption of proteins along the GI tract is often poor. The device is pain free, and reportedly can be administered without the need for trained medical personnel. This could be particularly important vaccines development approach against pandemic avian influenza
Posted by: Dr. Mohammad Intakhab Alam, Virologist, University of Zurich, Switzerland | November 19, 2008 09:18 AM