Experimental Nasal “Universal Vaccine” Shows Promise Against Coughs, Colds and Flu
Researchers at Stanford University say they are developing a single nasal spray vaccine that could protect against a wide range of respiratory infections — including coughs, colds, flu, and even certain bacterial lung infections.
The experimental vaccine, described in the journal Science, has so far been tested only in animals. Human clinical trials are still needed before it can be considered for public use. However, scientists involved in the research believe the approach represents a dramatic shift in vaccine design.
Unlike traditional vaccines — which train the immune system to target one specific pathogen — this new method works differently. Since the late 18th century, when Edward Jenner pioneered vaccination, immunisation has largely focused on teaching the body to recognize and fight a single infection, such as measles or chickenpox.
The Stanford team’s approach does not directly “train” the immune system to recognize a specific virus. Instead, it mimics natural immune communication signals and leaves key immune cells in the lungs, called macrophages, on heightened alert. Delivered as a nasal spray, the vaccine prepares these cells to respond rapidly to a broad range of invading pathogens.
In animal studies, the protective effect lasted around three months. Researchers observed a 100-to-1,000-fold reduction in viruses entering the lungs. Even when some pathogens bypassed the initial defense, the broader immune system appeared primed to respond much faster than usual.
Professor Bali Pulendran, a microbiology and immunology expert at Stanford, described the vaccine as a “radical departure” from conventional methods. He said the experimental treatment triggered a broad immune response capable of defending against multiple viruses — including flu, Covid and common cold viruses — as well as certain bacteria.
The team also found protection against two bacterial species: Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, both of which can cause serious lung infections.
Interestingly, the approach may also help reduce allergic reactions. Researchers observed that immune responses linked to house dust mite allergens — a common trigger for asthma — were dampened in animal models.
Independent experts have described the findings as highly promising. Professor Daniela Ferreira of the University of Oxford, who was not involved in the study, called the research “really exciting” and said it could transform how respiratory infections are prevented if future human trials confirm the results.
While the vaccine remains in early development, scientists say it could represent a major step toward broader, longer-lasting protection against some of the world’s most common respiratory illnesses.