For those who are not a fan of a sharp shiny object piercing through your skin, we have good news for you. In the future, you may not have to be jabbed to receive your COVID-19 vaccine.
In fact, all you need is a patch.
Needle-Free COVID-19 Vaccine Patches in Development & Might Be Used in the Future
Down under in Australia, a group of scientists at the University of Queensland are developing a vaccine patch that measures to be a square centimetre. The patch is dotted with over 5,000 microscopic spikes.
Although 5,000 microscopic spikes sound scarier than a large shiny needle, the fact is you are not able to see these spikes. The application of this patch involves a “clicked on” applicator that resembles a hockey puck.
It makes it feel like you are getting a good flick on the skin instead of penetration through the skin.
Patches Outperformed Syringes
In their study, those who received the patch produced high levels of neutralising antibodies after two doses including in their lungs. They also produced a strong and faster immune response as well.
Additionally, when tested on a sub-group of mice who was only given one dose of vaccine and an additional substance called an adjuvant (used to spur immune response), they did not fall ill.
On top of that, the patches also store better than the syringes. Normally, the syringes can only be stable for a few hours at room temperature. However, for the patch, dry-coating the vaccine on the patch allows the vaccine to be stable for at least 30 days at 25°C and a week at 40°C.
Plus, usage of the patch will reduce medical errors since the application of the patch does not require highly trained professionals to deliver it.
Does that mean the patch can be self-administered?
The doors are opened for that possibility.
This tiny patch is considered a “revolution” for children, the needle-phobic and developing countries. However, for the patches to be approved, a sponsor is required.
Other COVID-19 Patches
Two American companies are also working on COVID-19 patches. One of the patches is made of a protein polymer that will dissolve in the skin. It only has 121 spikes per patch as compared to 5,000 spikes.
The patches will be out for clinical trials next summer where over 2,000 to 3,000 people will be involved.
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Featured Image: goffkein.pro / Shutterstock.com (Image is for illustration purpose only)
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