A hypothetical TB vaccine refers to a vaccine that currently does not exist. It is a hypothetical scenario with a vaccine that may protect against infection and/or disease and/or recurrence to a certain extent. Usually WHO guidance is followed to inform these hypothetical vaccines (An investment case for new tuberculosis vaccines (who.int).
Tuberculosis Integrated Model-Based Evidence and Recommendations (TIMBER) for robust TB vaccine decision-making by National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) in Africa.
The TIMBER study is a multi-country research study aimed at strengthening the use of model-based evidence to support national decision-making on the introduction of new TB vaccines in Africa. The study brings together National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs), policymakers, researchers, modellers and other stakeholders in South Africa, Kenya and The Gambia to co-create models and explore how modelling can be used effectively within the WHO Evidence-to-Recommendation process. TIMBER will generate country-specific evidence, strengthen capacity for using modelling in vaccine policy decisions, and develop practical approaches to support timely, evidence-informed introduction of new TB vaccines.