Vaccines for Development

Infectious diseases, long forgotten in the rich world, devastate the developing world killing seven million children each year.

Immunization is a safe and cost-effective way to combat infectious diseases and poverty. Vaccine development, however, faces many scientific, economic and political challenges. Traditional vaccine strategies for AIDS, TB and Malaria -- three diseases accounting for six million deaths annually -- show little progress.

The Center for Global Development, an organization dedicated to reducing global poverty and inequality through policy-oriented research and outreach, has focused international attention on the importance of improved vaccine strategies and is leading the debate about radically different incentives for vaccine development. Forum One Communications' AIDS Information Group joined their team to launch a host of internet-based services to influence thought leaders on the topic -- including G8 participants in July 2005 -- and enhance global systems for vaccine development. The tools and services we’re working on include: a topical web site, an online book, a very active blog, an electronic newsletter, and a project intranet -- all interwoven into a communications strategy supplemented by working groups, a book, print materials, meetings and conferences.

Forum One Communications brings both the technical qualifications for crafting an effective online communications strategy and deep experience with the topic. Forum One Communications' previous work on AIDS and vaccines includes work with the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), UNAIDS, The World Bank and the UN Millennium Project.

It has been 25 years since HIV was discovered, and a vaccine is not in sight. We hope to help.

Would you like to find out how to get involved in the vaccine issue? Contact Jim Cashel