Event
Bridging the Gap – Global Collaboration for Group A Streptococcus Vaccines
Photo: International Vaccine Institute (IVI)
Date: May 20, 2025
On 20 May 2025, the International Vaccine Institute will be hosting two in-person events on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly. The events will focus on two urgent and underrecognized global health threats: Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) (8.00-10.00) and leptospirosis (14.00-15.30).
About the event
Group A Streptococcus is a widespread and under-prioritized health threat, causing everything from mild infections to life-threatening conditions like rheumatic heart disease – particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite its global burden, vaccine development remains slow due to scientific and regulatory challenges.
This side event will explore the path forward for Strep A vaccine development through international collaboration, investment, and the next phase of the Strep A Vaccine Global Consortium (SAVAC 2.0). It will bring together health officials, policymakers, researchers, and global health stakeholders to discuss surveillance, country experiences, and building a coordinated global response.
The event is being organized with the Swedish government as a co-host, and Dr. Karin Tegmark Wisell, Sweden’s Global Health Ambassador, will be one of the keynote speakers at this event.
Registration to the event is free. Please note that it is possible to attend a breakfast before this event from 7.30-8.00.
About the International Vaccine Institute
The International Vaccine Institute is an independent international organization, headquartered in Seoul and established at the initiative of the United Nations Development Programme. Its mission is to discover, develop, and deliver safe, effective, and affordable vaccines for global health targeting infectious diseases that significantly impact low- and middle-income countries.