Terrorism speeds vaccines. (Clinical Capsules).

Concerns about bioterrorism have led to stepped-up vaccine development efforts.

A vaccine against Ebola virus is set to begin human clinical trials in the next 6-7 months, and contracts for developing a new anthrax vaccine have been awarded to two companies, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Crucell, a Dutch biotechnology company, has exclusive rights to sell the Ebola vaccine, which is made with Ebola genes provided by the NIAID. The focus on bioterrorism and on funding of projects to fight bioterrorism has accelerated the vaccine development process, NIALD director Dr. Anthony Fauci reported at a World Medical Association meeting in Washington last month.