AEGiS-15IAC: HIV vaccine literacy in the developing world: Experiences from Kenya.

15th International AIDS Conference

Bangkok, Thailand - July 11-16, 2004

HIV vaccine literacy in the developing world: Experiences from Kenya.

Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. A10060)

Ndinya-Achola JO, Anzala AO, Mbori-Ngacha D, Nduati R, Ngugi EN, Jaoko WG, Bwayo JJ
University of Nairobi/KAVI, Nairobi, Kenya

ISSUES: HIV vaccine clinical trials are still relatively new concepts in sub-Saharan Africa which is also the worst-affected region in the world. Stigma, lack of relevant information, mistrust by professionals as well as policy makers and misconception that HIV vaccines offer a cure for AIDS all combine to make the process of initiating HIV vaccine trials an uphill task in this region. Lack of AIDS vaccine policy and unclear guidelines in the approval processes compound the problem.

DESCRIPTION: Kenya AIDS Vaccine Initiative (KAVI) embarked on a process to evaluate a clade A DNA vaccine. In order to convince policy makers, religious leaders, health professionals and non-health professionals, the mass media and the community in general, the KAVI team developed a number of educational Materials tailored to suit the various groups.

LESSONS LEARNED: In order to communicate complex scientific information to various stake holders in the AIDS vaccine clinical trials, the educational materials should be presented in a format which can readily be understood. A core team of dedicated scientists in health and social sciences should be available to communicate the information. Conclusions and

RECOMMENDATIONS: Research groups or countries intending to initiate HIV vaccine clinical trials should borrow some of the experiences from those already in the field to avoid some of the delays and frustrations.

Keywords: AEGIS, AIDS Vaccines, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Clinical Trials, Africa South of the Sahara, Educational Status, Vaccines, DNA, Kenya, immunology

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A10060