The upcoming generation of COVID-19 vaccines, which require no needles at all, may arrive soon. CDO-7N-1, a novel intranasal vaccination, has been under development for four years and exhibits potential as a long-term, single-dose treatment. This live attenuated intranasal vaccine, according to Griffith University Professor Suresh Mahalingam, promotes both mucosal and systemic immunity, potentially providing protection for a year or longer.
Unlike traditional injections, this vaccine works at the source of infection—the nose—building immunity where the virus typically enters the body. Other intranasal vaccines, like a viral vector version approved in India, introduce the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to the immune system using a harmless adenovirus shell. CDO-7N-1, however, uses the entire SARS-CoV-2 virus, but in a weakened form, making it incapable of causing full-blown COVID-19.
Live vaccines, such as the MMR vaccine, have long been used and generally offer longer-lasting immunity with fewer doses. Though not suitable for everyone, particularly those with compromised immune systems, they have clear advantages. CDO-7N-1, for instance, induces immunity to all major SARS-CoV-2 proteins, offering effective protection against all variants tested so far.
Another key advantage of CDO-7N-1 is its stability at 4°C (39.2°F) for up to seven months, making it particularly viable for low- and middle-income countries. Extensive preclinical testing has shown that the vaccine induces robust immunity with just one dose without causing lung damage, even across various animal models.
With clinical trials on the horizon, this novel vaccine could soon offer a needle-free, longer-lasting alternative for COVID-19 protection, particularly in regions with limited access to cold chain infrastructure. Though the current vaccines remain effective, a live intranasal option could provide a more durable solution to combat evolving COVID-19 variants.