Researchers from the Centenary Institute and the University of Sydney created the CoVEXS5 vaccine, which protects against five variants of the virus, including the “highly immune-evasive” Omicron XBB.1.5 variant and SARS-CoV-1, a relative of SARS-CoV-2.

Studies showed reduced virus levels in the lungs of vaccinated mice by 99.9 per cent, compared to unvaccinated controls.

It also triggered high levels of virus-blocking antibodies and activated special immune T-cells in the lungs, which are critical for the body to fight the virus.

“By combining parts of multiple coronaviruses, we’ve created a vaccine that can better prepare the body to fight off both current and future threats,” Dr Claudio Counoupas, a researcher at the Centenary Institute’s Centre for Infection and Immunity, said.

The CoVEXS5 vaccine features a unique version of the spike protein, fusing protein elements from several different COVID-19 variants into one single structure.

Researchers say this fusion helps the immune system recognise and respond to a broader range of virus types.

”The immune response we saw in the laboratory was both strong and broad,” co-lead study author Elizabeth Chan said.

“It’s exciting to think that this approach could help future-proof vaccines against ongoing changes in the virus.”

The research team is now focusing on advancing the vaccine through further testing and development.