On September 27, 2024, Ebovac, a lab in Kambia, presented the results of its Ebola vaccine clinical trial, which started in response to the 2014 outbreak. The College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) established the trial center to combat the virus, with Kambia selected due to its high infection rates and proximity to Guinea.
Professor Mohamed Samai, Scientific Director of the Ebovac/Prevac study, shared that the trial, which began in 2015 with community support, showed the vaccine was safe for both adults and children aged 1 to 17. The study concluded that the vaccine effectively prevents Ebola, is safe across all age groups, and is well-tolerated. This led to one vaccine being licensed by the U.S. FDA and approved by the European Medicines Agency, with two pre-qualified by the World Health Organization.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the trial boosted local capabilities to handle future epidemics, though the vaccine is not yet commercially available. Paramount Chief Bai Shebora Lion II of Mambolo Chiefdom praised the collaboration during the trial, which provided free medical care to participants. COMAHS has plans to expand research facilities in Kambia District, aiming to establish a dedicated research center for future studies.
