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Black Death vaccine being developed over fears plague could reemerge


Published on 2025-01-07 06:23:28 - MSN
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  • Scientists who developed the AstraZeneca COVID jab are working on a new vaccine to combat the Black Death amid rising fears the plague could re-emerge. The plague first hit British shores in 1348 after being spread to Europe by fleas on rats aboard ships from Asia.

Scientists are developing a vaccine for the Black Death, also known as the plague, due to concerns that the disease could reemerge as a significant threat. This initiative is driven by the fear that the plague, which caused devastating pandemics in the past, could evolve into a more virulent form or be weaponized. The plague, caused by the bacterium *Yersinia pestis*, still exists in some parts of the world, with occasional outbreaks occurring. The new vaccine aims to provide immunity against all forms of the plague, including pneumonic, septicemic, and bubonic. Researchers are focusing on creating a vaccine that can be quickly deployed in case of an outbreak, using modern genetic engineering techniques to enhance its effectiveness and safety. This development comes amidst growing concerns over antibiotic resistance and the potential for bioterrorism, highlighting the need for proactive measures against historical pathogens.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-au/health/other/black-death-vaccine-being-developed-over-fears-plague-could-reemerge/ar-AA1x6ayO ]