Pfizer receives grant funding to assess GBS vaccine

Pfizer has been provided with a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to assess a new vaccine to protect newborns against group B streptococcus (GBS) infections.

The phase I/II trial of Pfizer's vaccine candidate, which protects newborns via maternal immunisation, will mark an important step in bringing this potentially important new product to market.

GBS infections are a leading cause of neonatal sepsis, a serious life-threatening blood infection. This is a particular issue in developing countries, where prophylactic administration of antibiotics is not a routine measure.

Research has shown that a potential conjugate vaccine that incorporates at least five serotypes of GBS could prevent around 95 percent of cases of group B streptococcal disease in infants younger than three months.

Dr Kathrin Jansen, senior vice-president and head of vaccine research and development at Pfizer, said: "We are looking to determine whether our investigational vaccine could generate levels of protective antibodies in the mother that, when passed to her unborn baby, will protect the baby against deadly GBS infection."

With over 20 years of experience within the pharmaceutical market, we at Zenopa have the knowledge, skills and expertise to help find the right job for you. To find out more about the current pharmaceutical roles we have available, you can search for the latest job roles, register your details, or contact the team today.