Risk assessment for the implementation of controlled human Schistosoma mansoni infection trials in Uganda
Year: 2019
Type: article
Abstract: Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, and a significant cause of morbidity; it is a priority for vaccine development. A controlled human infection model for Schistosoma mansoni (CHI-S) with potential to accelerate vaccine development has been developed among naïve volunteers in the Netherlands. Because responses both to infections and candidate vaccines are likely to differ between endemic and non-endemic settings, we propose to establish a CHI-S in Uganda where Schistosoma mansoni is endemic. As part of a “road-map” to this goal, we have undertaken a risk assessment. We identified risks related to importing of laboratory vector snails and schistosome strains from the Netherlands to Uganda; exposure to natural infection in endemic settings concurrently with CHI-S studies, and unfamiliarity of the community with the nature, risks and rationale for CHI. Mitigating strategies are proposed. With careful implementation of the latter, we believe that CHI-S can be implemented safely in Uganda. Our reflections are presented here to promote feedback and discussion.
Source: AAS Open Research
Language: English
Subfield: Parasitology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,128
Funders: Wellcome Trust, Government of the United Kingdom, European Commission, Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, New Partnership for Africa's Development, African Academy of Sciences, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Directorate for Biological Sciences, Medical Research Council, Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, Alliance for Accelerating Excellence in Science in Africa, European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership
Awards: G127891921, Makerere University UVRI Centre of Excellence for Infection & Immunity Research and Training (MUII-plus), G2347075150, Human infection studies for Schistosoma mansoni vaccine testing in Uganda, The groundwork for establishing Controlled Human Helminth Infection Models in Africa (Gabon and Uganda) (CHIinAfrica), G7063735130, G7269016324, G7279930290, G7853697249, G857320834
OpenAlex ID: W4250641069