Delivery technologies
Today, most vaccines are delivered via intramuscular or subcutaneous routes using a needle and syringe. In the future, novel delivery technologies may enhance the reliability and effectiveness of vaccines, while also improving safety of delivery. Additionally, methods such as intradermal delivery hold the potential for reducing the quantity of vaccine required for an effective dose and saving costs to immunization programs, which is especially important in low-income countries.
PATH is working to improve vaccine delivery through the exploration and development of new delivery technologies. By collaborating with industry partners, manufacturers, and ministries of health, PATH strives to advance devices that make vaccine delivery more reliable, more effective, and easier for developing countries. Visit PATH's website to learn more about its work in vaccine delivery technologies.
View resources on delivery technologies
Key resources
DNA Vaccine Delivery by Densely-Packed and Short Microprojection Arrays to Skin Protects Against Vaginal HSV-2 Challenge (2010)
An article that reports on a study that investigates the tolerability, immunogenicity, and efficacy of a plasmid DNA vaccine
using a recently devised silicon microprojection device.
Optimal Intramuscular Needle-Penetration Depth (2008)
An article about a study conducted to determine the optimal needle length for intramuscular vaccination of children of various ages and sizes.
Featured PATH resources
Technologies for Oral Delivery of Vaccines (2011)
A fact sheet that describes PATH's approach to technologies for the oral delivery of vaccines and their potential applications for public health.
Landscape Analysis: Trends in Vaccine Availability and Novel Vaccine Delivery Technologies: 2008–2025 (2008)
A report that identifies trends in the availability of vaccines and novel vaccine delivery technologies that are and will be of relevance to low- and middle-income countries.
Page last updated: May 2012.
