Gambiaj.com – (SUKUTA, the Gambia) – Scientists at the MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (MRCG at LSHTM) has uncovered crucial evidence that could accelerate the development of a long-awaited vaccine against Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) — a leading cause of childhood illness and preventable deaths worldwide.
The landmark study, carried out in Sukuta, followed more than 400 people from 44 households over a year. Published this week in Nature Medicine, the findings reveal for the first time in humans that children with higher levels of specific antibodies are better protected from future Strep A infections — paving the way for a vaccine capable of tackling multiple strains.
“Our study shows that children under the age of two are commonly exposed to Strep A,” said Scientific Officer Fatoumata Camara, who worked alongside Principal Investigators Dr Edwin Armitage and Dr. Alex Keeley. “We now have evidence that certain antibodies may be helping protect against infections, and these antibodies are exactly what the upcoming vaccines aim to produce.”
Strep A, often described as a “silent killer,” claims more than 500,000 lives annually, with many deaths linked to rheumatic heart disease.
The toll is heaviest in low-income countries, where early diagnosis and treatment remain a challenge. In The Gambia, researchers found that almost one in four infants had already been exposed by their first birthday — with skin infections more common than sore throats.
To deepen their understanding, the team also examined mother–baby pairs from an earlier vaccine trial to track how antibody levels change from birth.
“This research was made possible because of the trust and support of our community,” said Musukoi Jammeh, Field Coordinator for the study. “Our field teams worked closely with families to collect samples and track symptoms. We are eager to share these results with the families, the Alkalo of Sukuta, and the Sukuta Health Centre.”
Professor Ed Clarke, Head of Vaccines and Immunity at MRC Unit The Gambia, hailed the results as a “major leap forward.”
“This should provide encouragement for vaccine manufacturers to invest in Strep A vaccines,” Clarke said. “It also gives real hope that soon we can protect our communities in The Gambia with a safe and effective vaccine.”
The research formed part of the SpyCATS project (S. pyogenes Carriage Acquisition, Transmission, and Serology), funded by the Wellcome Trust and supported by the Gambian Ministry of Health.
This breakthrough positions The Gambia at the forefront of a global health effort — offering data that not only guides vaccine design but also ensures it is tailored to protect the communities most at risk.
