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).
Preferred product characteristics for new tuberculosis vaccine
The document presents WHO preferences for new tuberculosis vaccines, driven by the high medical need for contribution to the fight against TB, in alignment with the End TB strategy. Priorities are for a vaccine to be administered to adolescents and adults for prevention of pulmonary tuberculosis and reduction of transmission, and for a pediatric vaccine with improved safety and efficacy as compared to BCG.