Indonesia’s Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, has firmly rejected allegations that Indonesia is being utilized as a testing ground for the development of a tuberculosis (TB) vaccine. He emphasized the critical role of the country in the fight against this deadly infectious disease. Minister Budi refuted claims that aim to discourage vaccination, warning of the potential loss of 100,000 lives if misinformation continues to spread. He commended the success of COVID-19 vaccination efforts in combating the pandemic and called on the media to actively combat false narratives that could hinder vaccination efforts.
The TB vaccine currently undergoing Phase 3 clinical trials in Indonesia is the result of extensive research conducted by local universities, involving more than 2,000 participants under strict supervision. Minister Budi stressed the importance of adhering to scientific protocols in vaccine development and emphasized the historical impact of vaccines in saving lives. With tuberculosis causing over one million deaths globally each year, including 125,000 in Indonesia alone, the country’s participation in vaccine trials also aims to establish local vaccine production capabilities, potentially positioning Indonesia as a key manufacturing hub.
Addressing concerns about the vaccine’s suitability for Indonesians, Minister Budi highlighted the necessity of local participation in the trials to ensure effectiveness. He clarified misinformation surrounding the location of a vaccine factory and outlined the government’s strategy to integrate the TB vaccine into the national immunization program. The Minister concluded by underscoring the serious threat of TB as an infectious disease and stressing the vital role of effective vaccination programs in combating it.
