Partners Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) and Valneva SE (NASDAQ: VALN) have revealed that their Lyme disease vaccine candidate, VLA15, has demonstrated immunogenicity and safety as a booster shot in individuals aged between 5 and 17 years. The primary scheme resulted in seroconversion rates of 94.6% to 95.3% for all serotypes of Borrelia burgdorferi, with antibody titers increasing 2.0- to 2.7-fold after the booster dose administered at month 18, according to the press release.
Phase III Development and Regulatory Filing Plans
The Phase III development of the vaccine commenced last year and is still ongoing, positioning VLA15 as the most advanced candidate among its competitors in the race for a Lyme disease vaccine. Pfizer and Valneva are planning regulatory filings for 2026, which would mark a significant step towards bringing this vaccine to market.
Implications for Lyme Disease Prevention
The positive results from the trials highlight the potential of VLA15 in providing protection against Lyme disease, a condition that poses significant health challenges, particularly in regions where the disease is endemic. The vaccine’s ability to induce a strong immune response and its safety profile in the pediatric age group are crucial factors in the ongoing development and potential approval of VLA15.-Fineline Info & Tech
