MeNZB

MeNZB is a vaccine that was developed to control the epidemic of meningococcal B disease in New Zealand. The vaccine was developed by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Chiron Vaccines, and was used in a mass immunization campaign from 2004 to 2006.

History

The MeNZB vaccine was developed in response to an epidemic of meningococcal B disease in New Zealand that began in the early 1990s. The epidemic was caused by a strain of the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis that was unique to New Zealand. The vaccine was developed by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Chiron Vaccines, and was based on a similar vaccine that had been used in Norway.

Development and use

The development of the MeNZB vaccine involved the isolation and purification of the outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from the New Zealand epidemic strain of Neisseria meningitidis. The OMVs were then combined with an adjuvant to enhance the immune response. The vaccine was tested in clinical trials and was found to be safe and effective.

The MeNZB vaccine was used in a mass immunization campaign in New Zealand from 2004 to 2006. The campaign targeted all individuals aged under 20 years, and achieved a high coverage rate. The use of the vaccine led to a significant reduction in the incidence of meningococcal B disease in New Zealand.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the MeNZB vaccine has been demonstrated in several studies. These studies have shown that the vaccine is effective in preventing meningococcal B disease, and that it has a good safety profile. The vaccine has also been shown to induce a strong immune response in individuals who receive it.

See also

• Meningococcal vaccine
• Meningococcal disease
• Vaccination