CEPI, SII to develop 'Disease X' vaccine
CEPI (the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) and Serum Institute of India (SII) are joining forces to develop a new vaccine targeting H5N1 bird flu—a virus scientists worry could spark the next big pandemic, and which is being used as a prototype for preparedness against "Disease X," an as-yet-unknown pathogen with pandemic potential.
Backed by up to $16.4 million, they're using advanced tech to create two versions of the vaccine: one based on the original virus, and another enhanced with AI design from Houston Methodist Research Institute.
Part of CEPI's '100 Days Mission'
This project is part of CEPI's "100 Days Mission," which pushes for super-quick development of vaccines against new threats.
The goal? A shot that protects against a wide range of H5 strains.
Partners like the UK Health Security Agency will help test how well it works—making this a big step in getting ahead of future outbreaks.
Commitment to fair pricing and open access
Since 2024, SII has been part of CEPI's global network focused on making outbreak vaccines affordable and easy to get, especially in countries across the Global South.
The partnership promises fair pricing and open access to non-sensitive data—helping ensure that when new pandemics hit, everyone gets a shot at protection.