Self-Administered Flu Vaccine

Sep-09-13 Taking advantage of the new microneedle patch technology, researchers have developed a dissolving patch that allows patients to self-administer vaccines—painlessly.

Developed by a team at Georgia State University, the patch consists of microneedles only seven-tenths of a millimeter long and uses dry virus-like particles instead of the usual liquid containing the dead or attenuated virus. An added stabilizing agent means the patches don’t have to be refrigerated, and the precise delivery method of the small needles allows for a smaller dose—reducing possible side effects.

In tests, the patch delivery method was shown to provide greater protection than the conventional method of intramuscular immunization.

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[DISCOVERY.COM]
[CNET]

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