Bangkok’s Bold Move: Nasal Sprays to Counter Covid-19
What’s the New Plan?
Thailand’s National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NCGEB) is getting ready to launch a fresh twist on coronavirus prevention— a nasal spray vaccine that’s been showing great promise in mice. According to Deputy Government Spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek, the first human trials could start by year’s end, pending the Food and Drug Administration’s thumbs‑up.
How It Works
These spray vaccines use two familiar players: an adenovirus vector and an influenza virus platform. The idea is simple— deliver the vaccine right where the virus loves to start its party: the nose!
Next Steps and What’s Planned
- Phase 1: Start soon, check safety and dosage.
- Phase 2: Expected in March next year, will also test protection against the Delta variant.
- Mid‑2024 Goal: If all goes well, shift to mass production and wider rollout.
Why Nasal Sprays Matter
Scientists worldwide are racing to spot better ways to fight Covid. A strong reason? The nose is the virus’s VIP entry point. By delivering a vaccine straight there, researchers hope to stop the bad guys before they even get a foothold.
Thailand’s Other Vaccine Efforts
In addition to the nasal spray, the country’s own mRNA vaccine from Chulalongkorn University and an inactivated virus candidate from Mahidol University are heading into their second‑phase trials this month.
Current Vaccination Landscape
So far, Thailand’s roll‑out has leaned on the Chinese Sinovac, the AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm shots. For frontline healthcare workers, a third booster with Pfizer/BioNTech is in play.
Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul noted that the nation expects to receive 32.5 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine this year, combining a 30‑million purchase and generous donations from the United States.
All told, only about 6.8 percent of Thailand’s 66 million residents have received two vaccine doses so far.
Feelings Behind the Numbers
There’s a mix of excitement, optimism, and a touch of worry as the population watches these headline‑grabbing innovations. One thing’s for sure: it takes boldness—and a little courage—to push forward in hopes of a fresher tomorrow.
