Experimental HIV Vaccine Regimen Ineffective in Preventing HIV

Filling vials. Photo courtesy of Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center

NIAID has stopped administration of investigational vaccinations in its HVTN 702 clinical trial taking place in South Africa. This action was taken because an independent data and safety monitoring board (DSMB) found during an interim review that the regimen did not prevent HIV. Importantly, the DSMB did not express any concern regarding participant safety.

“An HIV vaccine is essential to end the global pandemic, and we hoped this vaccine candidate would work. Regrettably, it does not,” said NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. “Research continues on other approaches to a safe and effective HIV vaccine, which I still believe can be achieved.”