Gavi: new tuberculosis vaccines could save 7.3 million lives by 2050
In Nigeria, the Gavi Alliance said that new tuberculosis vaccines, expected to become available from 2029, could save up to 7.3 million lives worldwide between 2030 and 2050. This was reported by Premium Times Nigeria, citing a statement by the alliance.
According to Gavi estimates, introducing the vaccines could also generate up to $135 billion in economic benefits in low- and middle-income countries. The alliance called the potential vaccines among the most impactful new immunization tools in recent decades.
Demand and supply
Gavi called on governments and vaccine manufacturers to begin preparations to ensure sufficient, affordable and timely supplies once the products become available. According to the alliance, average demand in low- and middle-income countries could reach 85 million vaccination courses per year. In the first years, it could be higher, as countries with a high disease burden will seek to cover several age groups.
Gavi CEO Sania Nishtar said that the potential of the new vaccines can be realized only if there is sufficient, predictable and affordable supply for countries with the highest disease burden. According to her, the alliance is already working with partners to prepare timely access to the products.
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Protection for adolescents and adults
According to Gavi, in 2024, approximately 10.7 million people worldwide developed tuberculosis, and 1.2 million people died from the disease. Countries supported by Gavi accounted for an estimated 77% of all tuberculosis deaths.
The only currently licensed tuberculosis vaccine, BCG, has existed for more than 100 years. It protects infants and young children from severe forms of the disease, but its protective effect weakens over time. New vaccine candidates are being developed to prevent infectious pulmonary tuberculosis among adolescents and adults.
The estimate of 7.3 million lives saved is based on preliminary modelling by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. The model assumed 50% effectiveness against tuberculosis regardless of prior exposure to the pathogen, and a gradual waning of immunity over 10 years.
