Compositions and methods are described for generating an immune response to an arenavirus. The compositions and methods described herein relate to a modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector encoding one or more viral antigens for generating a protective immune response to a member of genus Arenavirus (such as a member of species Lassa virus) in the subject to which the vector is administered. The compositions and methods of the present invention may be used to prevent and/or treat an infection caused by arenavirus.
