Overview of the tuberculosis vaccine development landscape

The introduction of a novel tuberculosis (TB) vaccine will help to decrease TB incidence and is essential for achieving TB elimination. Given the limitations of BCG, there is a requirement for new vaccines for TB that can prevent the development of TB disease across all age groups. Currently, there are about 17 vaccines in clinical development from phase I to phase III. They belong to different vaccine types namely - viral vector, mycobacterial inactivated, mycobacterial live attenuated, protein subunit and mRNA vaccines. The TB vaccines in development are intended to prevent infection or disease, prevent recurrence or to act as therapeutic vaccines. Revaccination with BCG vaccine is also currently being evaluated in the prevention of TB. Developing an effective TB vaccine is challenging. Basic science research, advancing clinical development and research to ensure public health impact is crucial in TB vaccine development. Engaging stakeholders, securing funding, and advocating for support could expedite the development of new TB vaccines.