Nanopatch Technology Takes the Pain out of Vaccination

 

The nanopatch is considered the greatest breakthrough in vaccines since the invention of the syringe 150 years ago. It was designed by Professor Mark Kendall of the University of Queensland.

 

[Professor Mark Kendall, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology]:

“Well, the nanopatch is an alternative to the needle and syringe. Most vaccines are delivered by the needle into muscle, but scientists have discovered that the muscle doesn’t have very many immune cells and it’s actually holding back vaccines.”

 

The patch, which is smaller than a postage stamp, is more effective than the needle and syringe.

 

[Professor Mark Kendall, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology]:

“Apply the patch against the skin to breach our tough outer layer and deposit the vaccine directly to the immune cells that matter the most.” 

 

One major breakthrough is that the vaccine does not need refrigeration, which will be a huge benefit particularly in developing countries. 

 

[Professor Mark Kendall, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology]:

“About half of the vaccines used in Africa are not working properly because somewhere along the line the refrigeration is fallen over.” 

 

Dr. Anne Greening is one who is excited about the pain-free approach to vaccinations.

 

[Dr. Anne Greening MB ChB]:

“Needle phobia is just massive and it’s just one of the major drawbacks with delivering vaccines with needles for children that will be amazing. It is hard to comprehend not using needles and syringes in the future, but I guess that’s progress.”

 

News welcomed by mums and children.

 

[Clare Meadows Hammond, Mother]:

“I think it would be a great breakthrough and make going to the doctors a whole lot easier with four children, and less stressful for everybody.”

 

If the nanopatch is introduced, it means that vaccinations will never be the same.

 

[Professor Mark Kendall, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology]:

“It’s considered that the nanopatch is potentially a game changing technology for the field of vaccines.” 

 

NTD News, Brisbane, Australia