On July 18 2024, the Ifakara Health Institute held a crucial meeting in Arusha, Tanzania, through its “DDVaX” human vaccine clinical trials project for Rift Valley Fever (RVF). The goal was to enhance collaboration with government bodies and public health partners to tackle RVF and other zoonotic diseases.  

Zoonotic diseases are illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi that can be transmitted between animals and humans leading to people and animals, from mild to severe, and even death. 

>> Learn more about Zoonotic diseases and how to protect yourself and your family

The meeting featured prominent stakeholders, including Dr. Salum Manyata from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO). 

The Ifakara team, led by Dr. Grace Mwangoka, Project Leader and Coordinator of the DDVaX clinical trials project, including Dr. Moshi Shabani, Dr. Ali-Hamad Said, and Dr. Maxmillian Mpina, took the audience through Ifakara's rich history and experience in zoonotic disease surveillance such as rabies and human vaccine clinical trials with a particular focus on RVF. 

The discussions covered the burden of RVF in Tanzania, the methodology behind Ifakara's clinical trials, and the strategies employed to ensure the success of past and current studies, including the DDVaX project. 

One Health approach key to effective control 

Dr. Manyata from the PMO commended Ifakara’s contribution in generating knowledge and actively using the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnected health of people, animals, and the environment, as demonstrated by the stakeholders present. This allowed each participant to voice concerns and contribute to a collaborative strategy aimed at tackling shared health challenges effectively.

He emphasized that this kind of collaboration will be key in ensuring all angles are covered in combating these diseases. 

Recommendations for improved collaboration

The partners praised Ifakara for its role in generating evidence and suggested ways to enhance collaboration, including improved data and knowledge sharing, and capacity building.

In conclusion, Dr. Gwakisa John from the Ministry of Health stressed the importance of increased communication with the government and recommended deeper engagement with policy makers to boost understanding and streamline efforts. 

Echoed by many in the room, this meeting marks a step forward towards more effective and strategic efforts in Tanzania's fight against zoonotic diseases.

About the "DDVaX" A human vaccine clinical trial project

Ifakara is conducting this four-year project to gather strong evidence from Phase I and II trials showing that DDVax is safe and can effectively trigger immune responses, potentially protecting against Rift Valley Fever, a prevalent disease in the region. 

The project is funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and aims to provide data on safety and effectiveness. This data will support advancing to larger Phase IIb/III trials for vaccine licensure, facilitating quicker deployment through emergency use authorizations or full commercial approval. Learn more about this here