Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2009. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Bangkok Post - August 5, 2009
This HIV vaccine trial was evaluated and endorsed by scientists in Thailand and the US, the Aids Vaccine Research Working Group and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The trial was also reviewed by at least five ethical committees and commended by an independent ethical review in 2006 by the Aids Vaccine Advisory Committee of the WHO. In addition, vaccine safety was confirmed by an independent Data and Safety Monitoring Board, which met eight times during the study. This trial was made possible because of the widespread support it received from the international scientific, funding and advocacy communities.
The vaccines used in this study were specifically designed for populations in Thailand and Southeast Asia, where subtypes B and E are prevalent. It is important to note that a vaccine must be seen as part of a comprehensive approach to prevention of HIV infection, and not as a stand-alone solution. Trial partners view this vaccine regimen as a potential addition, not an ''alternative'' to the Thai Ministry of Public Health's comprehensive approach to Aids prevention.
Regarding the statements attributed to Mitchell Warren, executive director of the Aids Vaccine Advocacy Coalition (Avac), both Mr Mitchell and Avac have consistently and publicly supported clinical HIV vaccine research, and this Phase 3 trial in particular.
The Phase 3 HIV vaccine trial in Thailand will contribute essential knowledge about HIV vaccines and represents an important scientific milestone for HIV/Aids research. Vaccine development is an iterative process, and the Thai people deserve enormous credit for their contribution to this global effort.
SUPACHAI RERKS-NGARM, Senior Expert in Preventive Medicine, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health
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