MU-JHU Care Ltd, together with Makerere College of Health Sciences (MaKCHS) are working on research and implementation science activities related to enabling maternal immunization platform readiness in Uganda in anticipation of further  out vaccines for preventable diseases to reduce maternal and newborn illness and death in Uganda. This work is being conducted as part of a research consortium establishing a Maternal Immunisation Readiness Network in Africa and Asia (MIRNA).

A cornerstone of this work is to meet with key stakeholders, that guide, inform national maternal-child health policy and/or have an interest in maternal immunization, public health and vaccine science in Uganda to work together to prepare for upcoming vaccines in pregnancy such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Group B Streptococcus. 

On 4th September 2024 MU-JHU and MakCHS convened a stakeholder meeting at Sheraton Four Points to understand the opinions of key stakeholders for maternal readiness assessment in Uganda as well as update key stakeholders on current and future study plans. To start of the meeting Prof. Annettee Nakimuli (Dean of MakCHS) and Prof Philippa Musoke (Executive Director of MU-JHU) gave heart warming remarks and gave brief background to their respective organisations:

Key presentations made included;

• Maternal Vaccines, history and landscape – Dr. Eve Nakabembe, MakCHS
• Previous efforts to prepare for maternal vaccines in Uganda -Dr. Robert Mboizi, MU-JHU
• PROTECT Study – Dr Robert Mboizi, MU-JHU 

The meeting was rounded of with a round-table discussion on the approach to used in MIRNA and a summary of the way forward.

   

Background 

Maternal immunization is a crucial public health strategy that offers significant benefits to both mothers and their newborns. By vaccinating pregnant women, we can enhance their immunity against specific infections, reducing the risk of severe illness during pregnancy. Moreover, this approach allows for the transfer of protective antibodies from the mother to the fetus through the placenta. This passive immunity is vital in safeguarding newborns during their first few months of life when they are too young to receive certain vaccines. Maternal immunization has proven especially effective in preventing serious illnesses such as influenza, pertussis, and neonatal tetanus—diseases that can be life-threatening for infants.

Uganda is uniquely positioned to lead new maternal immunization programs due to its robust public health infrastructure, strong track record in vaccine delivery, and commitment to maternal and child health. Uganda has a well-established public health system that has demonstrated its capability in managing large-scale vaccination campaigns, such as those for polio, measles, and COVID-19. The country’s experience in vaccine distribution and outreach, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas, provides a solid foundation for the successful implementation of maternal immunization programs. Uganda has prioritized maternal and child health in its national health strategy, with ongoing efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. The government’s commitment is evident through policies that focus on improving access to antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postnatal services. Maternal immunization aligns perfectly with these goals, offering an additional layer of protection for both mothers and infants.