SA leads landmark trials in search for first oral cholera vaccine

THE South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) has given Biovac the green light to begin clinical trials to produce the country’s first vaccine from scratch in more than half a century.

- THOBEKA NGEMA

The clinical trials for Biovac’s oral cholera vaccine were launched yesterday at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg.

The project is supported by several organisations, including the Gates Foundation, Open Philanthropy, the UK's Wellcome Trust, and the ELMA Vaccines & Immunization Foundation.

In his keynote address, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi said local production of oral cholera vaccines will enable South Africa and the continent to respond swiftly, decisively, and equitably for citizens and neighbouring countries. Cholera outbreaks are increasing in Africa, exacerbated by vaccine shortages that leave communities vulnerable.

“We firmly believe that strong local and regional science and innovation ecosystems are vital for being prepared to handle outbreaks such as cholera,” Motsoaledi said. He said the pivotal clinical trials of the oral cholera vaccine were timely.