Context
WHO aims to reduce the global burden of dengue by 25% by 2030. To reach this goal, it is imperative to provide control programmes with sustainable vector control tools. Wolbachia, a symbiotic bacterium that occurs naturally in many insects, has been successfully transferred into the Aedes aegypti mosquito and has been found to reduce the transmission of the dengue virus. Some studies have also shown that this intervention could be sustained for more extended periods. The WHO Vector Control Advisory Group has assessed this intervention and confirmed its public health value for dengue control. WHO has identified a need to develop the Target Product Profiles (TPPs) of current and emerging vector control products to support their optimization. Consequently, a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) was established by WHO to define optimal and minimally acceptable characteristics for developing the TPPs. The TAG is being supported by the WHO secretariat.
A draft TPP for Wolbachia is now being made available for broad public consultation to receive wide perspectives of diverse stakeholders for the final development of the document. The document is accompanied by a “Context and Background Materials” document, which details a modelling framework developed to suggest a range of effectiveness and cost targets for Wolbachia replacement approaches. As described in detail in this background material, this modelling can support vector control efforts as it seeks to set quantifiable TPP targets. In addition, a range of implementation models are possible, including a “hybrid” programme of vector population suppression followed by its replacement. These various implementation models may have an impact on the cost efficacy and generalizability of the Wolbachia replacement approaches. Therefore, the generation by the TAG of Preferred Product Characteristics (PPC) for such hybrid approaches is appropriate. A PPC document will be posted for public consultation soon.
The benefit of TPPs is to assist key stakeholders such as product manufacturers and regulators with product standardization and optimized design and set parameters that can lead to improved safety, effectiveness, affordability and accessibility. They
can also stimulate targeted research and development across the world.
How to participate in this public consultation?
- Download the draft TPP and the “Context and Background Materials” document and read them carefully.
- Provide feedback using the online form. This form is designed to seek technical feedback, point out indicated areas of ambiguity, or ask for clarification if required. You may provide your feedback using the pre-defined “Comments”
section for specific characteristics of the TPP. You can also provide more general feedback using the section “General comments” at the bottom of the form.
- The completed online form with your feedback should be sent to WHO no later than 20 September 2022 by an email to either of the following email addresses: VelayudhanR@who.int or VVE@who.int.
- If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr Raman Velayudhan (e-mail: VelayudhanR@who.int).
The final versions of the TPP will be made publicly available via WHO’s website in 2022.
WHO wishes to thank you very much in advance for your contribution.