Gavi's 6-In-1 Vaccine May Prove Game-Changer For Polio Eradication: STAT News

The global effort to eradicate polio may soon receive a significant boost. The governing board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance is expected to approve a new six-in-one vaccine, which could make the eventual withdrawal of oral polio vaccines less dangerous, STAT News reports.

The New Six-in-One Vaccine

The proposed vaccine, known as a hexavalent, would protect children against hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and all three types of polioviruses. This would be the first time Gavi offers assistance in purchasing a polio vaccine in a combination format. If approved, the vaccine could start to become available to countries that choose to use it next year.

Benefits of the Hexavalent Vaccine

There are multiple advantages to this approach, Stat News notes. Not only could it increase the number of children around the world who are routinely getting the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) to protect them from polio, but it could also ensure countries don't stop vaccinating against polio too quickly, if and when victory over polio is declared.

Cost and Availability

While combination vaccines are more expensive, Gavi and its partners have been negotiating with manufacturers, who know there will be a big demand if they produce a hexavalent for the right price. Gavi expects three producers to be in a position to supply the hexavalent vaccine between now and 2026, with another two — including one from Africa — slated to come on board in 2027.

Impact on Polio Eradication

Experts believe that high hexavalent coverage would greatly increase immunity to polioviruses, helping to facilitate and maintain eradication. The vaccine would be given in three doses early in life — at six, 10, and 14 weeks — with a booster shot given at some point between the child's first and second birthday.

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