Latest news with #rotavirus
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Emory University and Micron Biomedical Launch First-in-Human Clinical Trial of Next-Generation Rotavirus Vaccine Delivered via Dissolvable Microarray Technology
Trial represents first-ever CDC-sponsored clinical trial of vaccine delivered via 'patch' technology and utilizes Micron's first-in-class dissolvable microarray technology Research builds on Emory's research on influenza vaccines self-administered via Micron's microarray technology ATLANTA, June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emory University and Micron Biomedical today announced the first clinical trial of a novel rotavirus vaccine, CC24, delivered via dissolvable microarray technology is now enrolling participants. This marks the first clinical evaluation of any drug or vaccine delivered via patch or microarray that is sponsored by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Rotavirus infection remains a leading cause of childhood diarrheal deaths, primarily in low- and middle-income countries where existing oral vaccines are less effective. CC24 is a uniquely inactivated rotavirus vaccine developed by the CDC to allow for an alternative to oral administration. 'CDC recognizes the potential of this groundbreaking clinical trial, which will test the safety of both our novel vaccine, CC24, in adults and the vaccine's delivery with 'patch' technology,' said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, Director of CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. 'The trial marks significant progress in vaccine technology innovation and is a critical step toward saving more children from rotavirus illness and death.' Micron Biomedical's unique needle-free technology rapidly delivers vaccines and therapeutics via dissolvable microarray compounds that are pressed painlessly into the uppermost layers of skin. The company formulates existing drugs so that they have thermostable properties, reducing or eliminating the need for a cold chain, and packages them in a thumb-size lightweight technology so it can be self-administered with the push of a button, while producing no medical sharps waste. Micron's technology has been recognized for its potential to expand vaccine and therapeutic access in hard-to-reach settings, such as developing countries and where medicines need to be swiftly delivered and administered–such as in times of epidemics and pandemics, as well as national security applications and military uses. 'Rotavirus is a leading cause of diarrheal morbidity and mortality in children less than five years of age worldwide, but current oral rotavirus vaccines don't work as well in low- and middle-income countries where the burden of disease is greatest,' said 'With this trial we are thrilled to advance scientific innovations that have the potential to save lives, as well as significantly improve access and uptake of other vaccines globally and here in the U.S.' 'The availability of new vaccine administration methods, such as Micron Biomedical's dissolvable microarray patch, could offer important choices for children and adults, not just with rotavirus but also with vaccines that are currently administered by injection,' said 'People who are afraid of needles may be more likely to use this patch because it feels less invasive than vaccines currently administered by injection.' The study builds on existing research by Emory University, published in The Lancet, about self-administered seasonal influenza vaccine via Micron Biomedical's dissolvable microarray technology, as well as studies across other disease indications, including measles and rubella. 'The faster we can simplify access to life-saving vaccines and therapeutics, the more lives we can save and this clinical trial is a critical milestone both in accelerating innovations that are likely to make rotavirus vaccines more effective and accessible - and in demonstrating the growing demand for needle-free vaccines and drugs,' said Steven Damon, CEO of Micron Biomedical. 'We're thrilled to collaborate with Emory University, a leader in clinical research with a heritage of studying next-generation vaccines and cutting-edge technologies, and with the CDC, whose work to develop this novel vaccine and collaboration with Micron Biomedical to deliver it without needles has been ground-breaking.' This phase I double-blind placebo-controlled trial will assess the safety, reactogenicity, and immunogenicity of a novel inactivated rotavirus vaccine CC24 delivered via Micron Biomedical's microarray technology—which provides painless, needle-free administration and overcomes vaccine transport and storage infrastructure challenges associated with conventional vaccines. The trial will recruit 50 healthy adults, between ages 18 and 45 years old. Data from the study will inform planned studies in children. Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a leading research university with one of the fastest-growing research enterprises in the nation. Emory is known for its highly recognized professional schools of medicine, public health, nursing, business, law, and theology, as well as for its advanced research facilities and a rapid expansion of research support in the health sciences. Emory University School of Medicine is best known for its research and treatment in infectious disease, brain health, heart disease, cancer, transplantation, orthopaedics, pediatrics, renal disease, ophthalmology, and geriatrics. Micron Biomedical is the leader in dissolvable microarray-based, drug and vaccine administration technology. Micron Biomedical is a clinical-stage life science company on a rapid path to commercializing its proprietary dissolvable, microarray technology. Micron's technology is designed to improve access and achieve better health outcomes globally through injection-free, painless, and simple and/or self-administration of drugs and vaccines, and by eliminating or reducing the need for cold chain transport and storage, enhancing safety and efficacy, and improving patient compliance. Micron partners with and/or receives funding from private and public pharmaceutical and biotech companies, the Gates Foundation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PATH, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and the Georgia Research Alliance. For more information visit Media Inquiries Micron Biomedical: Shira DerasmoCuttlefish Communications+1 917 280 2497pr@ Emory University:Lara Moore+1 470 384 1878lmoore@ CDCTo request a comment or interview, reporters may visit the link in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Health Line
10-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
How Does Your Stool Smell If You or Your Child Has Rotavirus?
Loose and watery stools are a common symptom of rotavirus, which may also have a distinct, foul-smelling odor. Rotavirus stool may appear green, yellow, or brown in color. Rotavirus is a virus that affects the digestive tract. It causes gastroenteritis, an infection of the gastrointestinal tract. It most commonly affects children up to 5 years old, but rotavirus can affect people of any age. Diarrhea and vomiting are the main symptoms of rotavirus. These symptoms can lead to dehydration, especially in kids. If fluids aren't replaced or the illness lasts longer than 1 week, dehydration may become a medical emergency. Although stool doesn't usually have a pleasant smell, research suggests that rotavirus stools in particular may have a distinct smell. Learn more about what rotavirus stool smells like, other symptoms of rotavirus to look for, and what to do if you think you or your child has this virus. What does rotavirus stool smell like? Poop doesn't usually smell good, but stool from rotavirus may have a distinctly foul smell, akin to a slight sulfur or rotten egg smell. A 1987 study found that rotavirus stools in children had a distinct smell. Many nurses were able to classify the underlying cause of diarrhea based on smell alone, which was more effective than changes in stool color or texture. Researchers aren't exactly sure why rotavirus may cause stools to have a distinct, foul-smelling odor. But it may be due to the virus's effects on the gut microbiome, colon fluid, and levels of acids, fats, and sugars in the stool. What color is stool with rotavirus? Other rotavirus symptoms Symptoms of rotavirus typically appear within 2 days of contracting the virus and may last up to 8 days. Along with foul-smelling stools, symptoms may include: Persistent diarrhea and vomiting may lead to dehydration, which may become serious if left untreated. When to get medical attention It's important to get medical attention if you or a child has symptoms of severe dehydration or high fever. In adults, these can include confusion and dizziness. In everyone, including babies and toddlers, signs and symptoms of severe dehydration may include: lethargy not responding or acting as they normally do (in babies and toddlers) rapid heart rate or breathing sunken eyes irritability high fever excessive thirst decreased urination (fewer wet diapers) crying without tears soft spot on the top of the baby's head You should also connect with a doctor if you're vomiting is persistent and doesn't get better. What other conditions cause foul-smelling diarrhea? Many gastrointestinal conditions may cause foul-smelling diarrhea, including: other infections, like norovirus malabsorption Crohn's disease celiac disease short bowel syndrome pancreatitis cystic fibrosis Certain dietary changes, such as going on a high fiber diet, may also cause foul-smelling diarrhea. How is rotavirus treated? Most cases of rotavirus can be treated with at-home care. The best thing to do is to stay hydrated and let the virus run its course. This includes drinking lots of fluids. In many cases, drinking water is OK, but make sure you're also replacing the electrolytes you lose through vomiting or diarrhea. Electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or Gatorade (for older children or adults) may be helpful, but consider limiting apple juice, as the sugar in it may worsen diarrhea. If you or your child gets severely dehydrated, intravenous (IV) fluid rehydration in a hospital may be required. This involves injecting fluids directly into your bloodstream via a vein, usually in the arm. In some cases, adults can take antidiarrheal medication to help relieve symptoms. But for children, it's best to speak with a pediatrician to discuss the best method of management, as they may not be able to take medications. Other important things to do if you think you or your child has rotavirus include: staying home to rest, since rotavirus is very contagious washing your hands often waiting to eat once the vomiting has stopped (usually after the first 24 hours) Frequently asked questions Can you prevent rotavirus from being transmitted? Practicing good hand hygiene can help prevent rotavirus from being transmitted from one person to another. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer frequently throughout the day. It's especially important to wash your hands after changing diapers, caring for a sick child, and using the bathroom. Children should also keep their hands out of their mouths as much as possible. The best way to prevent rotavirus transmission is to make sure children get the rotavirus vaccine, which is part of routine childhood vaccinations. Practicing good hand hygiene can help prevent rotavirus from being transmitted from one person to another. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer frequently throughout the day. It's especially important to wash your hands after changing diapers, caring for a sick child, and using the bathroom. Children should also keep their hands out of their mouths as much as possible. The best way to prevent rotavirus transmission is to make sure children get the rotavirus vaccine, which is part of routine childhood vaccinations. Can adults get rotavirus? Yes, people of any age can get rotavirus. Yes, people of any age can get rotavirus. How do doctors diagnose rotavirus? Symptoms of rotavirus are similar to those of other gastrointestinal conditions, so doctors often look at symptoms and treat those rather than testing for rotavirus. However, doctors will rule out any serious conditions, like appendicitis. They may also test for bacterial causes of symptoms. Bacterial infections can cause more severe illnesses and are sometimes treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of rotavirus are similar to those of other gastrointestinal conditions, so doctors often look at symptoms and treat those rather than testing for rotavirus. However, doctors will rule out any serious conditions, like appendicitis. They may also test for bacterial causes of symptoms. Bacterial infections can cause more severe illnesses and are sometimes treated with antibiotics.
South China Morning Post
30-05-2025
- General
- South China Morning Post
3 gastroenteritis cases at Hong Kong hospital unrelated, investigation finds
A trio of suspected gastroenteritis cases at a Hong Kong hospital earlier this year, in which the death of a young doctor prompted concerns of an outbreak of a highly toxic strain of E coli, were unrelated, health authorities have found. The Centre for Health Protection also said in revealing the outcome of its investigation on Friday that the young oncologist who died had traces of a certain kind of rotavirus, rather than the previously thought Shiga toxin-producing E coli (STEC), but that his cause of death was 'uncertain'. An expert from the investigating team suggested it was the first time that a particular strain of the rotavirus had been detected in Hong Kong, but there was no evidence of a community outbreak. The death of the young doctor at Princess Margaret Hospital in February prompted concerns that an outbreak of the toxic strain had emerged after it was found in the stool sample of one of the doctors who suffered milder symptoms. 'Based on the available information, the [centre] confirmed that there was no STEC outbreak in the oncology department of [the hospital] and that there was no linkage between the illnesses of the three doctors,' it said. The investigation, which included an expert team from the department of microbiology at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), found that a stool sample of the doctor who was suspected of having a STEC infection did not grow 'viable' bacteria of the infectious strain.
