R&D Blueprint
The R&D Blueprint is a global strategy and preparedness plan that allows the rapid activation of research and development activities during epidemics. Its aim is to fast-track the availability of effective tests, vaccines and medicines that can be used to save lives and avert large scale crises. With WHO as convener, the broad global coalition of experts who have contributed to the Blueprint come from medical, scientific and regulatory backgrounds. WHO Member States welcomed the development of the Blueprint at the World Health Assembly in May 2016.
R&D Blueprint and MERS-CoV
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), an emerging infectious disease of growing global importance, has caused severe acute respiratory disease in more than 1500 people, resulting in more 500 deaths. The high case fatality rate, growing geographic distribution and vaguely defined epidemiology have created an urgent need for effective public health countermeasures. Despite the relatively few number of cases to date, research and development of diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic products for MERS-CoV are advancing quickly.
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Target product profiles (TPPs)
Selected disease areas are identified as WHO priorities for research and product development. In the case of MERS-CoV, target product profile development...