Page 107 - SAMRC AnnualReport 2025-26

P E R FOR M A NC E I N FOR M A T I ON

pathogens such as Klebsiella. These infections
remain major contributors to infant morbidity and
mortality in low- and middle-income countries. VIDA
conducted clinical trials and observational studies
to evaluate maternal immunisation strategies and
vaccine effectiveness. This work generates evidence
to support the development and introduction of
maternal vaccines, thereby protecting infants in
early life and informing immunisation policy.

The unit also prioritised antimicrobial resistance
(AMR), a growing global health threat. Through
hospital-based surveillance and laboratory analyses,
VIDA investigated the epidemiology and resistance
patterns of priority pathogens in neonates and adults.
This work contributes to improved diagnostics,
informs treatment strategies, and strengthens
national and global AMR surveillance systems.

VIDA continued its contribution to cause-of-death
surveillance through the Child Health and Mortality
Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) programme,
using minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) to VIDA staff members doing fieldwork.
generate high-resolution data on causes of child
mortality. These data inform targeted public health
interventions and improvements in maternal and
child health programmes.

Hospital-based surveillance platforms monitoring
respiratory pathogens and other infectious diseases
were also maintained, enabling tracking of disease
burden, early detection of emerging pathogens,
and evaluation of vaccine impact.
Collectively, these activities strengthen
understanding of infectious disease epidemiology,
enhance surveillance systems, and generate
policy-relevant evidence to reduce morbidity and
mortality.

Building Capacity Through
Training, Mentorship, and Support

VIDA places strong emphasis on capacity
development to empower staff and communities
while promoting equity, dignity, and ethical
practice in health research. These initiatives aim to
strengthen African-led research, build sustainable
scientific leadership, and ensure that research
is conducted in ways that respect and benefit
participating communities.
VIDA continued its contribution to cause-
Within the unit, capacity development focuses on of-death surveillance through the Child
training and mentorship for researchers, clinicians, Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance
and operational staff. VIDA supports postgraduate (CHAMPS) programme.
training by providing opportunities for Master’s and

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