Description of the Immune Response to Yellow Fever Vaccination
This study is investigating how our immune system reacts to the yellow fever vaccine. Scientists already know that vaccines create specific, long-lasting protection against particular diseases. However, there's a lesser-known idea called 'trained immunity'. This means some vaccines, especially 'live' ones, might also give a broader, temporary boost to our immune system, helping us fight off other, unrelated infections. This protection isn't specific to one germ but acts more generally, potentially lasting for months or even years. This research aims to understand this 'trained immunity' better by observing how people's immune systems respond to both 'subunit' and 'live' vaccines like the yellow fever jab.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking closely at how the yellow fever vaccine affects your body's defence system, your immune system. Right now, we know that vaccines work by teaching your immune system to remember a specific germ, so it can fight it off quickly if you meet it again. This is like your immune system having a detailed picture of the germ.
But there's an exciting idea being explored called 'trained immunity'. This suggests that some vaccines, particularly those made from 'live' but weakened germs (like the yellow fever vaccine), might do more than just protect against one specific illness. They might also give your entire immune system a general boost, making it better at fighting off other infections that it hasn't seen before. Think of it as giving your immune system a general fitness workout, not just teaching it one specific move.
This 'trained immunity' is different from the specific memory your immune system usually develops. It's a kind of short-term, general alert system that can last for several months or even a few years. For example, similar research has shown that the BCG vaccine (for TB) can trigger this broader protection. This study aims to see if the yellow fever vaccine also has this effect and to understand how these different types of vaccines change our immune responses in practice.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how the yellow fever vaccine affects your immune system.
- It investigates 'trained immunity', a concept where vaccines might offer broader protection.
- Participation involves your planned yellow fever and typhoid vaccinations.
- You'll also provide one blood sample and attend a follow-up visit.
- The study aims to improve our general understanding of how vaccines work.
- It's for adults aged 18-65 who are getting both vaccines.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged between 18 and 65 who are already planning to get vaccinated against both yellow fever and typhoid. You need to be healthy enough to give a single blood sample of about 51ml.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've already had the yellow fever or typhoid vaccine, or if you live in an area where typhoid is common or have had typhoid before, you unfortunately can't take part. Also, if you can't make it to a follow-up appointment about a month after your typhoid vaccine, you won't be able to join. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and anyone unable to understand and agree to participate, also can't take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
- Are you scheduled to receive both the yellow fever AND typhoid vaccines?
- Have you NOT had a yellow fever or typhoid vaccine before?
- Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Can you attend a follow-up appointment about one month after your typhoid vaccine?
- Are you generally healthy enough for a small blood sample?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, your participation will align with your standard vaccination schedule for yellow fever and typhoid, which typically involves two appointments one week apart. The main extra step for this study is giving a single blood sample of about 51ml, which is roughly three to four tablespoons. This blood sample will be collected at a time compatible with your health. You will also need to attend a follow-up visit approximately one month after your typhoid vaccine injection.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre Médical de l'Institut PasteurVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'trained immunity'?
It's a new idea that some vaccines might give your immune system a general boost to fight off different infections, not just the one they're designed for.
Why are you studying yellow fever and typhoid vaccines?
We want to compare how a 'live' vaccine (yellow fever) and a 'subunit' vaccine (typhoid) affect the immune system.
Do I have to be getting vaccinated for both yellow fever and typhoid?
Yes, to be eligible for this study, you need to be scheduled to receive both vaccines.
How much blood will be taken?
We will take one blood sample of about 51ml, which is roughly three to four tablespoons.
Will I get any special treatment in exchange?
No, your medical care will be exactly the same as if you weren't in the study. Your participation helps research generally.
How to find out more
Jessica Quintin, Dr
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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