Merck’s Ebola Vaccine Approved for the Pediatric Population

An expanded indication for ERVEBO for the prevention of disease caused by Zaire ebolavirus in individuals 12 months of age and older has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The vaccine was previously approved for use in individuals 18 years of age and older.

ERVEBO does not protect against other species of Ebolavirus or Marburgvirus, and the duration of protection conferred by ERVEBO is unknown. The effectiveness of the vaccine when administered concurrently with antiviral medication, immune globulin and/or blood or plasma transfusions is unknown. ERVEBO includes a contraindication for individuals with a history of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of the vaccine, including rice protein.

“Ebola virus disease is contagious and potentially deadly in both children and adults. We’re proud of the approval of ERVEBO for the prevention of disease caused by Zaire ebolavirus in children as young as 12 months old, which is another milestone in our continued commitment to help address the global health threat caused by Zaire ebolavirus,” said Eliav Barr, MD, senior vice president, head of global clinical development and chief medical officer at Merck Research Laboratories.