Scientists are developing controversial ‘contagious vaccines’ that could jump from vaccinated to unvaccinated, but experts warn of potential dangers

Scientists are currently attempting to develop “contagious vaccines” that would spread from the vaccinated to the unvaccinated, according to a new report.

A vaccine that fights disease but is also contagious is in development around the world. Scientists believe that creating a contagious vaccine could help prevent pandemics started by animals. However, some experts note that introducing a self-spreading vaccine is not only controversial, but also potentially dangerous.

Researchers are developing genetically engineered viruses that can spread from one animal to another, which will provide immunity to the disease. National Geographic reports that scientists are working on contagious vaccines for the extremely deadly Ebola virus, bovine tuberculosis, and Lassa fever. All three are zoonotic diseases – which are infectious diseases that are naturally transmissible from animals to humans.

Scientists believe they could expand the development of self-disseminating vaccines to other zoonoses such as rabies, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and the plague.

“Zoonotic pathogens may be bacterial, viral or parasitic, or may involve unconventional agents and can spread to humans through direct contact or through food, water or the environment,” the World Health Organization states. “They represent a major public health problem around the world due to our close relationship with animals in agriculture, as companions and in the natural environment. Zoonoses can also cause disruptions in the production and trade of animal products for food and other uses.” – READ MORE