Merck Begins Human Trials Of HIV Vaccine

Drug Company Cautiously Optimistic

6:55 p.m. EST February 22, 2001 -- Merck says that it has begun a small-scale human trial of a new experimental HIV vaccine.

A spokeswoman would not disclose details of the experiment or the vaccine, but she says that Merck is cautiously optimistic.

Merck officials plan to present their findings at a scientific forum in April.

The Wall Street Journal says that the vaccine prevented lab monkeys exposed to an extremely virulent strain of the disease from contracting it.

At least a dozen companies are experimenting with possible HIV vaccines.

Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.