Researchers have found that a new vaccine candidate can protect older mice from severe illness caused by COVID-19, even in models that are genetically engineered to closely mimic the human form of the virus. The vaccine, known as LAV<Nsp16>, was tested in mice that are older than usual, as age is a major risk factor for severe COVID-19 in humans. The results show that the vaccine is effective in preventing severe illness in these older mice, and it also induces a strong immune response that can protect against different strains of the virus. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more effective vaccines for older adults, who are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.