The first phase of clinical trials for a new bird flu vaccine for humans has shown it to be effective and safe against H5N1, say researchers from Sinovac Biotech Ltd.

The trial, which started in November 2005 showed that the vaccine stimulated the production of antibodies, say the researchers. A dosage of 10 micrograms stimulated 78.3% protective antibodies. In the European Union, the minimum is 70% for a flu vaccine.

None of the 120 volunteers showed any serious side effects, say the researchers.

The World Health Organization had provided the scientists with the virus' NIBRG-14 strain.

The owners of the new experimental vaccine, Sinovac Biotech Ltd, are applying for permission to carry out Phase II human trials. According to Chinese law, a vaccine can be marketed as soon as it successfully completes Phase III clinical trials.

If all goes well we will be much closer to having an effective human vaccine to protect from bird flu infection.

Sinovac Biotech Ltd