Scientists create controlled whooping cough infection to speed up vaccine research
NCT ID NCT05136599
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This completed phase 1 study tested whether giving healthy adults a controlled dose of whooping cough bacteria via nasal spray can safely cause mild infection. The goal was to establish a human infection model for future vaccine and treatment research. 79 participants aged 18-40 were enrolled to find the optimal dose that causes mild symptoms without serious harm.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Bordetella pertussis bacteria (intranasal)
What this could lead to
If successful, this model could help researchers test future pertussis vaccines and treatments more efficiently.
What could go wrong
This is an early-phase study with only 79 healthy adults, so results may not apply to the general population. The infection is mild and controlled, but risks include developing pertussis symptoms.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Canadian Center for Vaccinology
Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3K 6R8, Canada