Mycobacterium w. Vaccine

The Mycobacterium w (M.w) vaccine is a heat-killed suspension derived from a non-pathogenic mycobacterium: mycobacterium indicus pranii. As an immunotherapy, M.w is used against leprosy; the compound also shares antigens with M. tuberculosis. Its use has shown clinical improvement, rapid bacterial clearance, and enhanced immune responses to Mycobacterium leprae antigens.

M.w immunization activates macrophages and lymphocytes upon administration. It has protective efficacy against M. tuberculosis and M. leprae. As of August 2020, this vaccine is being tested for prophylaxis against COVID-19 in human clinical trials.