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

Abstract

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.

Keywords

Affiliated Institutions

• The University of Melbourne AU
• International Vaccine Institute KR
• Université Libre de Bruxelles BE
• Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital BE
• Royal Children's Hospital AU
• Princess Margaret Hospital for Children AU
• Program for Appropriate Technology in Health US
• The Kids Research Institute Australia AU
• Murdoch Children's Research Institute AU
• Johns Hopkins University US
• National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases US
• The University of Western Australia AU
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention US
• World Health Organization CH

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