I described two approaches: (1) combining surface proteins from different coronaviruses on a scaffold, and (2) focusing on conserved regions of the virus that tend not to mutate. One of the challenges for universal vaccines is performing clinical trials, which are slower and require substantial funding compared to the initial COVID-19 vaccine development under Operation Warp Speed.
John Batchelor mentioned that he has received five vaccinations and is considering another. That is a good idea, because the immunity elicited by the COVID vaccines wanes with time, especially as new viral variants capable of "immune escape" arise. The current vaccines may need reformulation to address new variants. While it has not yet been formally recommended, individuals who are immunocompromised or at high risk should consider getting additional shots.
You can find the audio of my entire discussion with CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor here, and my article, "The Holy Grail: A ‘Universal’ Flu Vaccine," on our website here.
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD
Henry I. Miller, MS, MD, is the Glenn Swogger Distinguished Fellow at the American Council on Science and Health. His research focuses on public policy toward science, technology, and medicine, encompassing a number of areas, including pharmaceutical development, genetic engineering, models for regulatory reform, precision medicine, and the emergence of new viral diseases. Dr. Miller served for fifteen years at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a number of posts, including as the founding director of the Office of Biotechnology.
