Use cases for pan-sarbecovirus vaccines: a workshop report

Area of Science:

• Vaccinology
• Infectious Disease Research
• Public Health

Background:

• The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 highlighted the need for vaccines against current and future coronavirus threats.
• A global consensus supports the development of broadly protective coronavirus vaccines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish use cases for broadly protective coronavirus vaccines.
• To define ideal characteristics for rapid deployment of pan-sarbecovirus vaccines.
• To guide future investments in pandemic preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Convened a workshop with experts from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP).
• Utilized a pan-sarbecovirus vaccine candidate for prevention of SARS-CoV-X as a model.
• Discussed implementation strategies and product characteristics for rapid vaccine deployment.

Main Results:

• Established specific use cases for broadly protective coronavirus vaccines.
• Identified key considerations for research and development of pan-sarbecovirus vaccine candidates.
• Defined characteristics for vaccines deployable within 100 days of pathogen emergence.

Conclusions:

• The identified use cases will guide investments to enhance pandemic preparedness.
• Development of broadly protective vaccines is crucial for responding to emerging coronavirus threats.
• Achieving rapid vaccine deployment aligns with global health security objectives.