New TB Vaccines Could Save 7.3 Million Lives, Study Finds
New tuberculosis vaccines currently under development could potentially save up to 7.3 million lives between 2030 and 2050, according to an analysis by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
The organisation said the vaccines could have a major impact on tuberculosis prevention if they become available at affordable prices and reach countries with the highest burden of the disease.
Gavi chief Sania Nishtar described the potential vaccines as a major future immunisation tool, while stressing the importance of reliable vaccine supplies and international support.
TB Remains a Major Global Health Challenge
Tuberculosis remains one of the world’s leading causes of death from infectious disease. According to the World Health Organization, TB was responsible for an estimated 1.23 million deaths in 2024.
At present, the only widely licensed TB vaccine is Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), which has been in use for more than 100 years.
BCG provides important protection to infants and young children against severe forms of tuberculosis. However, its protection against pulmonary TB can become less effective as people grow older.
New Vaccines Could Target Older Age Groups
Several new TB vaccines are being developed with adolescents and adults in mind. Gavi’s analysis suggests that the first successful candidate could prevent millions of deaths over the following two decades if it is approved and widely introduced.
The organisation said the potential health benefits could be particularly significant in countries where tuberculosis remains widespread.
The analysis also estimated that wider use of new TB vaccines could generate economic benefits of up to $135 billion across low- and middle-income countries by 2050.
Funding and Supply Remain Key Challenges
Despite the promising outlook, Gavi warned that the availability of new vaccines could depend on several factors, including funding, manufacturing capacity and predictable demand.
Limited investment and gaps in financing could slow the introduction of vaccines even after regulatory approval.
Gavi said it is working with international partners to prepare for the potential rollout of new TB vaccines and help ensure that countries with the greatest need can gain timely access.
If successful, the development of new vaccines could strengthen global efforts to reduce tuberculosis infections and deaths over the coming decades.
