Bridging the gap: Engaging researchers and advocates to build support for TB vaccine research and development

Abstract

The success of global efforts to develop new TB vaccines will rely on both addressing the scientific challenges identified throughout this Blueprint and mobilizing sufficient support and resources to sustain and advance the TB vaccine pipeline. As outlined in the TB Vaccine Blueprint, activities over the next decade will include expanding financing to provide sufficient resources, raising awareness of the need for new TB vaccines, and broadening the base of advocates, allies and champions for TB vaccine R&D. These activities will only be successful if advocates and researchers – including scientists, clinicians and product developers – work together. Researchers and advocates play an essential role in promoting the advancement of TB vaccine research and development (R&D), but have too often operated independently of each other, with researchers focusing on the science and advocates and civil society focused on advocacy, communications and resource mobilization. As we look toward the next decade of TB vaccine development, it will be critical for the research and advocacy communities to work more closely together to support the common goal of developing new, more effective TB vaccines.