Fridge-free vaccines pass first human trial

UK scientists have successfully trialled a fridge-free vaccine that remains stable at room temperature for a year, potentially transforming global vaccination. The dry-powder tetanus-diphtheria vaccine, developed by Stablepharma, produced immune responses equivalent to conventional vaccines in 60 volunteers. Around half of vaccines are wasted annually, often due to cold-chain failures. A larger trial with 160 people is planned, aiming to meet WHO targets for heat-stable vaccines.