Europe’s vaccine sector is in a strong position, with a new analysis revealing that there are 91 innovative vaccine and monoclonal antibody candidates currently in clinical development. Published today, Vaccines Europe’s annual Pipeline Review covers preventive and therapeutic vaccines against infectious diseases, as well as prophylactic monoclonal antibodies being developed by its member companies.
A new wave of candidates
Crucially, 41% of these candidates target pathogens for which no vaccines or prophylactic monoclonal antibodies are currently registered. This includes conditions such as acne, Lyme disease, Epstein–Barr virus infection and HIV, offering new hope to people facing infections that today have no approved vaccine option.
This surge of activity is also a win for public health and for Europe’s resilience. A broader, more innovative pipeline can translate into faster protection when outbreaks occur, better tools to tackle antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” and stronger defences for vulnerable groups throughout life.
“As immunisation research and development is advancing, Europe has a unique opportunity to lead. By investing boldly, embracing life-course immunisation and setting the global standard for regulatory excellence, Europe can provide faster, broader protection to people and strengthen its role as a global leader in vaccines and life-science innovation,” said Sibilia Quilici, Executive Director, Vaccines Europe.
Diverse platforms and technologies
The review details 91 candidates: 86 prophylactic and two therapeutic vaccines, alongside three prophylactic monoclonal antibodies, all targeting infectious agents. These are being developed using 12 different technologies, including mRNA, protein-based and glycoconjugate platforms.
Respiratory infections remain a major focus, with 68 candidates targeting respiratory-transmitted diseases such as coronaviruses, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and pneumococcal disease. Another 17 candidates are aimed at eight bacteria linked to significant antibiotic resistance, seven of which are on the World Health Organization’s Bacterial Priority Pathogens list, including E. coli.
Routine immunisation and preparedness
Routine immunisation is also well represented: 46 candidates are in development for established vaccine-preventable diseases such as human papillomavirus, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (including MMRV combination vaccines), meningococcal disease and others. In parallel, 31 candidates target infections originating from animals, including dengue fever, Lyme disease, Nipah virus and yellow fever, underscoring the need to address zoonotic threats that can spill over into humans as well as more traditional infections.
