In a groundbreaking move offering new hope against one of the world’s deadliest diseases, a Chinese doctor has become the first volunteer in clinical trials for a promising new mRNA vaccine against tuberculosis (TB).
Dr. Li Liang, a leading TB expert and vice president of Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University, received the vaccine on Monday. Developed by his hospital in collaboration with Chinese biotech firms, the vaccine has shown remarkable efficacy in animal studies, outperforming traditional vaccines by over 20 times.
“TB remains a major global health challenge, especially in developing countries,” Dr. Li explained. “The century-old Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is no longer sufficient. We need innovative solutions to protect people, particularly the youth, who are the future.”
TB is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs and is one of the top ten causes of death worldwide. Despite being preventable and curable, it claimed the lives of 1.5 million people in 2020, with the highest burden in the Global South.
Dr. Li hopes that the new mRNA vaccine, which employs cutting-edge technology similar to some COVID-19 vaccines, will revolutionize TB prevention. “By participating in the trial myself, I want to demonstrate confidence in our work and encourage others to support scientific innovation,” he said.
China has made significant strides in TB control through government support, dedicated medical professionals, and a healthcare system that reaches from local communities to national institutions. Dr. Li emphasized that continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and technology is vital.
Aligned with the World Health Organization’s goal to end the TB epidemic by 2035, Dr. Li stressed the importance of early detection and access to treatment. “It’s essential to bring advanced medical technologies to grassroots healthcare facilities. Only then can we truly make a difference,” he noted.
The initiation of this clinical trial marks a hopeful step forward. For teenagers and young adults around the world, especially in regions heavily affected by TB, this development signifies a brighter, healthier future.
