Uganda has launched its inaugural human trial for a vaccine targeting the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus, which has historically caused deadly outbreaks in the region. This landmark trial began on February 10, 2025, at the Makerere University Walter Reed Project in Kampala.
Dr. Misaki Wayengera, a leading virologist in the country, described the trial as a “crucial step in the fight against Ebola Sudan,” noting that this strain has no approved vaccine to date. He highlighted the urgency of the study, following the outbreak in 2022 that claimed over 55 lives in Uganda’s Mubende and Kassanda districts.
The vaccine, codenamed SUDVax, was developed collaboratively by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) and the Sabin Vaccine Institute. It uses a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) platform, similar to the technology behind the successful Ervebo vaccine for the Zaire Ebola strain.
The first trial participant, a 34-year-old healthcare worker, received the vaccine under the supervision of Dr. Peter Mpanga, who emphasized its importance: “This trial offers hope for frontline workers and vulnerable populations who are at risk during outbreaks.”
The trial aims to enroll 150 participants and will assess the vaccine’s safety, immunogenicity, and optimal dosage over the next 18 months. Initial results are expected by late 2025. If successful, the vaccine could be a game-changer in preventing future outbreaks of the Sudan strain across Africa.
Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Uganda’s Health Minister, lauded the initiative, saying, “This is a historic moment for Uganda and a testament to our commitment to health security.”
The trial has garnered international attention, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and funding from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).