The prospect of vaccination against group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.
Group A streptococcus is a widespread human pathogen that causes a broad spectrum of human disease. The persistent high burden and severity of illness in developing and industrialized countries speaks to the need for a safe and effective vaccine. Modern approaches to vaccine construction include M protein type-specific vaccines, vaccines utilizing conserved M antigens, and vaccines based on other conserved surface-expressed or secreted antigens. Vaccine candidates in various stages of development offer promise for prevention of Group A streptococcal infections and their sequelae.
Kotloff
Karen L
KL
Division of Infectious Disease and Tropical Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Center for Vaccine Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore Street, HSF 480, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. kkotloff@medicine.umaryland.edu