Countries launch a first-of-its-kind roadmap to ensure fair access before vaccines arrive.
West African nations have taken a big step toward stronger epidemic preparedness with the launch of the region’s first End-to-End (E2E) Access Roadmap for Lassa fever vaccines. The framework, unveiled during a webinar, is designed to make sure no country is left behind once vaccines are approved.
Led by the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) with support from CEPI, the roadmap charts everything needed to move a Lassa vaccine from the lab to long-term use — covering regulation, manufacturing, financing, procurement, delivery and sustainability.
CEPI’s Emma Wheatley said waiting until vaccines are approved would be too late. “The science is advancing, but impact depends on early planning for access, supply and delivery,” she noted, with experts expecting approvals within five years.
WAHO’s Dr Virgil Lokossou described the roadmap as West Africa taking charge of its own health security, built through wide consultations with governments, experts and partners.
For Nigeria, which carries one of the world’s heaviest Lassa fever burdens, the roadmap offers a clear path to avoid past delays and secure timely, equitable vaccine access when the moment comes.
…Your World, Informed.
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