UTMB Develops Single-Dose Andes Vaccine
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jun 12, 2026 · Last updated Jun 16, 2026
The development of a single-dose mRNA vaccine for Andes hantavirus by University of Texas Medical Branch could significantly impact the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries by creating a new market for hantavirus prevention and emergency post-exposure prophylaxis. This breakthrough could lead to substantial investment and accelerated clinical trials, potentially offering a solution to a significant public health threat.
Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) have developed single-dose mRNA vaccines that provided 100% protection against the deadly Andes hantavirus in animal testing. This breakthrough, backed by the United States — National Institutes of Health, is being fast-tracked for human clinical trials. The Andes virus, unlike other hantaviruses, can spread person-to-person, as demonstrated by a recent outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship that infected 13 people and killed three. The new vaccines, co-designed by Alexander Bukreyev and Ivan V. Kuzmin, and reported by lead author Big Brother 18 (American season) in The Lancet, generate a powerful immune response within 14 days, offering potential as an emergency tool for exposed individuals during outbreaks. Currently, no Andes hantavirus vaccines are approved by the United States — Food and Drug Administration or European Union — European Medicines Agency.
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