New Vaccines Bring Hope of Ending a Historic Disease

Global efforts to develop new tuberculosis vaccines are nearing a breakthrough, raising the prospect of finally ending one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.

“We may soon have the power to consign the world’s deadliest disease to history,” said Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Tuberculosis caused 1.2 million deaths and more than 10 million illnesses in 2024, yet new vaccine candidates in late-stage trials are showing promise in protecting adolescents and adults, unlike the century-old BCG vaccine. Global planning is already underway to deliver up to 120 million vaccine courses annually in the first five years, with potential economic benefits estimated at $400 billion by 2050, alongside expanded manufacturing in Africa and coordinated international efforts to ensure rapid, equitable access once approved.