Ticks are increasingly posing a threat for Lyme disease due to climate change, with Germany recording around 200,000 cases annually. While many infections remain mild, untreated cases can cause severe health issues. The VLA15 vaccine, developed by Valneva and Pfizer, shows promise in preventing the disease, having completed successful phase-2 trials. However, past controversies surrounding Lyme disease vaccines raise concerns. Lyme disease, transmitted through tick bites, is treatable with antibiotics if identified early.
Ticks and the Rising Risk of Lyme Disease
The changing climate has extended the activity period of ticks, leading to an increased risk of infectious diseases such as TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) and Lyme disease. According to estimates from the German Brain Foundation, Germany sees nearly 200,000 cases of Lyme disease annually.
While many Lyme disease cases are mild or asymptomatic, untreated infections can lead to the bacterium spreading to other tissues and organs, potentially causing lasting damage.
Hope on the Horizon: The VLA15 Lyme Disease Vaccine
Exciting developments are underway with the VLA15 vaccine, created by the French biotech company Valneva in partnership with Pfizer. This innovative vaccine targets the outer surface protein A (OspA) of the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium, helping to prevent the bacteria from escaping the tick and infecting humans.
The vaccine has successfully completed two phase-2 clinical trials, with results published in ‘Lancet Infectious Diseases’ showing a robust immune response across all tested dose groups against the six most prevalent variants of Lyme disease. Participants reported good tolerance to the vaccine, with no serious side effects or fatalities noted.
The strongest immune response was observed with the highest dosage of 180 µg, administered in three doses over six months. The upcoming phase-3 study will include 6,000 participants, and if results are favorable, Valneva and Pfizer plan to seek regulatory approval by 2026.
Understanding Lyme Disease: Key Facts
Lyme disease is primarily transmitted through tick bites, with the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria entering the bloodstream. Importantly, Lyme disease is not contagious between individuals.
In Germany, up to one-third of ticks may carry the Borrelia bacteria, but not every bite results in infection. The body’s immune system can often keep the bacteria at bay, and only about 1 in 100 tick bites leads to Lyme disease.
Most infections go unnoticed, but when symptoms do appear, they can vary widely, complicating diagnosis. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and headache. If you experience a rash or neurological symptoms following a tick bite, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.
Fortunately, Lyme disease is treatable with a two-week course of antibiotics when caught early. Prevention is key: wear light-colored clothing, conduct thorough tick checks after outdoor activities, and remove ticks swiftly to minimize infection risk.
Concerns Surrounding the Lyme Disease Vaccine
In 1998, the LYMErix vaccine was approved in the United States but faced backlash just a year later when over 100 vaccinated individuals filed a class-action lawsuit against the manufacturer, claiming side effects. Although authorities found no irregularities in subsequent investigations, the negative publicity led to a significant drop in sales, prompting the manufacturer to withdraw the vaccine voluntarily.