Ensuring equity with pre-clinical planning for chlamydia vaccines

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the leading bacterial STI globally, causing significant female morbidity like infertility.
• Ct vaccine candidates are progressing, nearing human efficacy trials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for integrating equity and justice considerations into Chlamydia trachomatis vaccine development.
• To highlight challenges in developing a broadly protective and accessible Ct vaccine.

Main Methods:

• This perspective synthesizes current challenges in Ct vaccine development.
• It emphasizes the need for community-engaged research for equitable implementation.

Main Results:

• Key challenges include targeting multiple serovars, both sexes, various anatomical sites, and resource-limited settings.
• Proactive planning for equitable access is essential.

Conclusions:

• A scientifically sound chlamydia vaccine must prioritize equity and justice.
• Community engagement is vital for shared-gendered responsibility in STI prevention.