Heterologous vaccine regimen: Stakeholder acceptance and implementation considerations

Area of Science:

• Vaccinology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Heterologous vaccine regimens, using different vaccine components or vectors sequentially, are advancing in clinical development.
• These prime-boost strategies offer potential for improved immunogenicity and broader protection.
• Understanding stakeholder perspectives is crucial for successful future implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the future acceptance and uptake of heterologous prime-boost vaccine regimens.
• To identify implementation-associated benefits and challenges from a global stakeholder perspective.
• To assess potential barriers and facilitators for policy, health facility, and recipient levels.

Main Methods:

• Development of survey tools based on literature review and expert interviews.
• Conducting online surveys and key informant interviews in six countries with national and sub-national stakeholders.
• Assessing awareness, perceived benefits/challenges, and hypothetical introduction scenarios.

Main Results:

• Highest potential identified for adolescent/adult immunoprophylaxis against diseases lacking current vaccines.
• Key reservations centered on logistics, record-keeping, and recipient compliance.
• Feasibility for routine childhood immunization hinges on enhanced, long-term immune response; outbreak scenarios pose logistical and timing challenges.

Conclusions:

• Heterologous prime-boost vaccines present opportunities, particularly for new disease targets in adults.
• Addressing logistical and compliance concerns is paramount for successful integration into immunization programs.
• Demonstrating superior immunological benefits will be key for adoption in routine childhood vaccination schedules.