Treatment and possible vaccine developed.
Great news everyone…
On the 28 September 2020 scientists announced they may have a nasal spray treatment that could protect people from COVID-19 infection and prevent transmission.
Ena Respiratory, an Australian biotech company developed a novel therapy shown to significantly reduce the viral load of COVID-19 in the nose and throat (in a gold-standard animal study). Outcomes showed reduced COVID-19 replication by up to 96. The study performed by Public Health England (PHE) scientists has a non-invasive, easy nasal administration and would be given once or twice a week.
The novel spray, INNA-051, enters the nasal cavity and stimulates the body’s ability to fight infection by boosting the natural immune response. This innate immune response is the initial line of defense against pathogens and is stimulated by INNA-051. Results were astounding showing a reduction in viral replication by 96% in the Ferret trial stage.
Ena Respiratory stated they are ready to move to human clinical trial and feel optimistic about progress and potential outcomes.
“We’ve been amazed with just how effective our treatment has been. By boosting the natural immune response of the ferrets with our treatment, we’ve seen a rapid eradication of the virus.”
“If humans respond in a similar way, the benefits of treatment are two-fold. Individuals exposed to the virus would most likely rapidly eliminate it, with treatment ensuring that the disease does not progress beyond mild symptoms. This is particularly relevant to vulnerable members of the community. In addition, the rapidity of this response means that the infected individuals are unlikely to pass it on, meaning a swift halt to community transmission.”
Ena Respiratory Managing Director, Dr Christophe Demaison
To date the company has raised AU$11.7m and are still seeking investment.
This glimmer of hope when we were all in need shows the resilience and motivation of humanity and the potential of what we are capable of.
Further testing and trials to be done. So, until then keep safe, stay positive and remember that the future is what we make it.
Stay tuned for updates.
