The Path to Group A Streptococcus Vaccines: World Health Organization Research and Development Technology Roadmap and Preferred Product Characteristics

Johan Vekemans, Fernando Gouvea-Reis, Jerome H. Kim, Jean Louis Excler, Pierre R. Smeesters, Katherine L. O'brien, Chris A. Van Beneden, Andrew C. Steer, Jonathan R. Carapetis, David C. Kaslow

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

43 Scopus citations

Abstract

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections result in a considerable underappreciated burden of acute and chronic disease globally. A 2018 World Health Assembly resolution calls for better control and prevention. Providing guidance on global health research needs is an important World Health Organization (WHO) activity, influencing prioritization of investments. Here, the role, status, and directions in GAS vaccines research are discussed. WHO preferred product characteristics and a research and development technology roadmap, briefly presented, offer an actionable framework for vaccine development to regulatory and policy decision making, availability, and use. GAS vaccines should be considered for global prevention of the range of clinical manifestations and associated antibiotic use. Impediments related to antigen diversity, safety concerns, and the difficulty to establish vaccine efficacy against rheumatic heart disease are discussed. Demonstration of vaccine efficacy against pharyngitis and skin infections constitutes a key near-term strategic goal. Investments and collaborative partnerships to diversify and advance vaccine candidates are needed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numberciy1143
Pages (from-to)877-883
Number of pages7
JournalClinical Infectious Diseases
Volume69
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 16 2019

Keywords

  • group A Streptococcus
  • pharyngitis
  • rheumatic heart disease
  • vaccine

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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