Clinical trials for SA's first locally developed vaccine to get underway soon

Clinical trials for the country's first locally developed vaccine in more than five decades are set to get underway soon.

Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi and Deputy of Science and Technology Nomalungelo Gina are on Tuesday leading the official launch of Biovac's oral cholera vaccine at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto.

The move marks the first time in over 50 years that a vaccine will be entirely manufactured in South Africa.

The development is being hailed as a major step toward advancing Africa's vaccine self-reliance and strengthening the country's capacity to respond to infectious diseases through local innovation and production.

"This initiative will launch phase 1 of the vaccine assessment in order to determine whether the vaccine can indeed prevent cholera infection," said spokesperson Foster Mohale.

“The clinical trials, coordinated by South African Medical Research Council, also highlights South Africa's ability to conduct such trials for multiple types of products."

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.