PneumoADIP: An Example of Translational Research to Accelerate Pneumococcal Vaccination in Developing Countries

Historically, the introduction of new vaccines in developing countries has been delayed due to lack of a coordinated effort to address both demand and supply issues. The introduction of vaccines in deve-loping countries has been plagued by a vicious cycle of uncertain demand leading to limited supply, which keeps prices relatively high and, in turn, further increases the uncertainty of demand. The Pneumococcal Vaccines Accelerated Development and Introduction Plan (PneumoADIP) is an innovative approach designed to overcome this vicious cycle and to help assure an affordable, sustainable supply of new pneumococcal vaccines for developing countries. Translational research will play an important role in achieving the goals of PneumoADIP by establishing the burden of pneumococcal disease and the value of pneumococcal vaccines at global and country levels. If successful, PneumoADIP will reduce the uncertainty of demand, allow appropriate planning of supply, and achieve adequate and affordable availability of product for the introduction of pneumococcal vaccines. This model may provide a useful example and valuable lessons for how a successful public-private partnership can improve global health. Key words:   Pneumococcal vaccines; Translational research; Developing countries