The Ebola Virus continues to ravage the 3 Western African countries of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone even as Americans seem to be losing interest. The World Health Organization has published the following statistics:
Guinea 2793 cases 1797 deaths
Liberia 8263 cases 3515 deaths
Sierra Leone 10030 cases 2977 deaths
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21,086 cases 8,289 deaths
There are several vaccines being developed. Three pharmaceutical companies with vaccines in the pipeline are:
Johnson and Johnson
This vaccine is in Phase I trials where it is being given to a few volunteers to check for safety and side effects. Two shots must be given 1-2 months apart.
Glaxo Smith Kline
This vaccine is ready for Phase II clinical trials in February. It will be given to a larger group of people, probably in Africa. It is made from a harmless cold virus and coated with proteins from 2 strains of the Ebola virus-Zaire and Sudan. It seems to be well tolerated and induces antibodies against Ebola.
Merck
Mercks Phase I trial was stopped for a short period when volunteers experienced joint pain. It has now resumed using a lower dose and seems to be well tolerated.