Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced the initiation of the MOBILIZE-1 Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of a single dose of V181, an investigational quadrivalent vaccine, for the prevention of dengue disease caused by any of the four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4), regardless of prior dengue exposure. Recruitment for the trial has begun, and the first participants are now enrolling in Singapore.

“Approximately half of the world’s population live in areas with a risk for dengue, making it a serious public health threat,” said Dr. Paula Annunziato, senior vice president, infectious diseases and vaccines, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “The initiation of the MOBILIZE-1 study, the first Phase 3 trial in our clinical development program, marks a key milestone in our work to help address this widespread mosquito-borne disease. If successful, V181 could provide an important single-dose option for at risk populations, regardless of previous exposure to dengue, to help reduce the significant burden around the globe.”

Merck is committed to research and innovation that aims to help protect the millions of people at risk for dengue virus infection and is establishing a program of clinical trials for V181, including conducting trials globally, in places where dengue is a significant health threat.