Duke researchers have created a vaccine with the potential to protect against all forms of coronavirus that move from animals to humans, now and in the future, NBC affiliate WRAL reports.
Duke experts held a briefing to discuss the vaccine on Monday morning. They believe this vaccine could prevent future pandemics.
The vaccine works by attacking a genetic sequence common to all forms of coronavirus that enables them to bind to human cells. The new vaccine has been 100% effective in non-human tests, according to WRAL.
Last week Dr. Anthony Fauci called the new research ‘potentially exciting’ and an important proof of concept.
On Monday, Duke immunologists discussed their research and its implications during a video conference call.
The vaccine works by taking a small part of the virus – the part that actually attaches to cells – and presents multiple copies to the immune system.