South Africa trials first homegrown cholera vaccine in 50 years

South Africa has launched a clinical trial for its first locally developed oral cholera vaccine in 50 years. Cholera, which spreads through contaminated food and water, has caused nearly 7,000 deaths this year amid global shortages.

This oral inoculation, created by the partly state-owned Biovac Institute, aims to address this shortage. This development is even more significant given that Africa currently accounts for 94% of the world’s cholera deaths but produces less than 1% of vaccines globally.

If the trial succeeds, the cholera vaccine will be available by 2028, bolstering regional health security. This initiative is a direct response to continent-wide calls for self-sufficiency, marking a significant move to combat infectious diseases with homegrown solutions and reduce reliance on external suppliers.