By Jullie Sesay
Scientists and public health experts are mapping critical research gaps that continue to slow efforts to develop and deploy an effective vaccine against Lassa fever, a disease that affects thousands of people annually across West Africa, including Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Liberia and Guinea.
Recent studies and scientific reviews have highlighted major weaknesses in data collection, vaccine preparedness, disease surveillance and research collaboration, despite growing international investment in vaccine development. �
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A newly published research agenda in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases identified 13 priority gaps requiring urgent attention before Lassa fever vaccines can be effectively introduced in endemic countries. The study involved 235 experts, most from West Africa, and focused on areas ranging from epidemiology and diagnostics to vaccine acceptance and policy planning. �
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Researchers say one major challenge is the lack of reliable data on how the disease spreads across different communities and environmental settings. Existing studies indicate that environmental and ecological drivers of transmission remain poorly understood. �
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Scientists have also warned that the virus’s high genetic diversity could complicate vaccine development, as different strains circulate across West Africa. Earlier mapping studies noted that genetic variation among Lassa virus lineages may affect how broadly future vaccines can provide protection. �
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Although several vaccine candidates are now in clinical development, there is currently no approved vaccine for Lassa fever. International organisations including the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) have funded multiple vaccine trials in Africa, including studies conducted in Ghana and Nigeria. �
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Researchers further noted significant disparities in scientific leadership and funding. A bibliometric analysis covering 55 years of Lassa virus research found that high-income countries dominate publications and international collaborations, while scientists from endemic African countries remain underrepresented. �
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Health experts argue that stronger regional collaboration, improved surveillance systems and greater investment in African-led research institutions will be essential if vaccine programmes are to succeed once a viable product becomes available.
Lassa fever is transmitted mainly through contact with food or household items contaminated by infected rodents, though person-to-person transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings. The disease can cause severe hemorrhagic illness, organ failure and death in serious cases. �
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Scientists say the growing threat posed by climate change, urbanisation and population movement could further expand the disease’s reach across Africa, increasing the urgency for an effective vaccine and stronger preparedness systems.
