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VACCINES

SHIGELLA AND ETEC

Shigella and Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC)  are two of the top five pathogens that cause moderate and severe diarrhea among children in Africa and South Asia. Typically caused by contaminated food or water, infections can lead to severe dehydration and death. Repeated infections can stunt children’s physical and cognitive development, causing a cascading burden with long-term consequences.

In low-income countries, access to medical treatment is often limited. On top of this challenge, bacterial resistance to antibiotics is growing. Vaccines that prevent ETEC and Shigella, which are currently under development, hold dramatic potential for reducing disease burden. PATH is collaborating with partners around the globe on advancing research on several vaccine candidates in the laboratory and through clinical trials.
Illustration showing purple bacteria labeled "Shigella" with text stating it's a severe, increasingly drug-resistant cause of diarrhea. The background is dark with abstract curvy shapes, and "DefeatDD" is visible at the bottom left.
Illustration of blue bacteria with text: "Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) - A leading bacterial cause of repeated diarrhea infections in infants." The background is dark, and the logo "DefeatDD" is in the corner.
A collage of photos shows staff working on the Shigella vaccine challenge study in blue gowns and gloves smiling, working, and posing together in a laboratory or clinical setting. Some are sitting at lab benches, while others stand holding equipment.
A milestone study in Kenya paves the way for Shigella vaccine development
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STATE OF THE FIELD REPORT

Global research and partnerships are advancing the development of safe, effective, and affordable vaccines against ETEC and Shigella pathogens. If introduced in high-burden countries or sub-national regions once they are available, these vaccines are projected to have a significant public health impact.

Read the Report