Page 93 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

Vaccines and Infectious
Diseases Analytics

Research Unit

Unit director:
Prof. Shabir Madhi

Prioritising responsive research (3) VIDA further led a Phase 3 Trial evaluating
through impactful interventions the MTBVAC vaccine in newborns to prevent
tuberculosis. VIDA participated in a multicentre
SAMRC/WITS Vaccine and Infectious Disease (VIDA) trial comparing VPM1002 to BCG. Our
Research Unit conducts cutting-edge research on surveillance of respiratory pathogens causing
infectious diseases and vaccines in Africa and low- hospitalisations in children under five provides
income countries, influencing global policies. We insights into RSV seasonality and incidence,
focus on disease surveillance, clinical trials, child informing public health strategies for managing
health, and mortality prevention. VIDA continues respiratory infections in children. VIDA also
to be a top clinical trial facility for vaccine research. conducted studies on Group B Streptococcus
We have conducted key studies on pneumococcal (GBS) to develop maternal vaccines that could
and rotavirus vaccines and are a leader in vaccine reduce neonatal sepsis and meningitis caused by
research for pregnant women to protect mother- GBS; and
newborn dyads.
(4) VIDA discovered new antimicrobial agents
During the 2023/24 financial year, our RSV research that are effective against multidrug-resistant
focused on reducing RSV infections, prevalent in Klebsiella pneumoniae infections, helping to
LMICs. Vaccines for adults, and pregnant women combat antibiotic resistance.
and monoclonal antibodies for infants are now FDA- Our research made significant progress in combating
licensed, reducing RSV-associated morbidity and infectious diseases, improving maternal and child
mortality in vulnerable populations. health, and addressing antimicrobial resistance, with
(1) The 'Matisse' Clinical Trial showed that Pfizer's potential global impact.
RSV vaccine is effective and safe in preventing
severe RSV-associated lower respiratory tract Equitable capacity development
illness in infants when administered to pregnant for empowering communities
women. This study is a promising intervention VIDA's capacity development initiatives prioritise
strategy to protect newborns against RSV equity, dignity, and community empowerment. By
infections during their most vulnerable period. nurturing skilled professionals and advocating for
inclusive healthcare, we drive positive change in
(2) The 'Melody' Clinical Trial, led by SAMRC/WITS health research and outcomes. The unit promotes
VIDA, showed that Nirsevimab, a monoclonal fairness, opportunity, quality, and social justice in
antibody against RSV, effectively reduced RSV- access, interventions, treatments, and outcomes.
related hospitalisations in term and late-pre-term
infants. This single-dose immunisation could SAMRC/WITS VIDA is widely recognised for its
potentially benefit high-risk groups worldwide. clinical vaccine trials. By training researchers,

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