Stakeholder perspectives on the potential introduction of a novel tuberculosis vaccine for adolescents and adults in Pakistan: A qualitative study
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Background
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge globally, with Pakistan ranking among the highest TB burden countries worldwide. Although several novel TB vaccine candidates for adolescents and adults are advancing through late-stage clinical trials, little is known about how these vaccines may be introduced in high-burden settings such as Pakistan. Understanding stakeholder perspectives is crucial for informing early implementation planning and policy development.
Methods
We conducted an exploratory qualitative study using semi-structured in-depth interviews with key stakeholders involved in TB control, immunization, clinical care, and health policy in Pakistan. Participants were purposively selected from national and provincial TB programs, Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), clinical settings, and academia. Interviews were conducted in English or Urdu, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s framework. A hybrid deductive– inductive coding approach was used.
Results
Ten stakeholders participated including one whose interview also served as a pilot test of the interview guide. Participants expressed strong support for the introduction of a new TB vaccine, driven largely by Pakistan’s high TB burden and the limitations of current prevention strategies. However, support was based on the availability of strong evidence regarding vaccine safety, effectiveness, and feasibility. Key barriers to vaccine acceptability included low perceived risk of TB, misinformation, stigma, sociocultural influences, and limited public awareness. Stakeholders emphasized community engagement, trusted healthcare providers, and effective communication as critical enablers. Health system challenges included workforce shortages, cold chain limitations, and financing constraints. Household contacts of TB patients were consistently identified as the priority group followed by adolescents and people living with HIV. A phased implementation strategy was broadly preferred followed by gradual integration into existing health services.
Conclusion
Stakeholders in Pakistan broadly support new TB vaccines for adolescents and adults. Successful implementation will require addressing sociocultural barriers, strengthening health system capacity, and developing context-specific delivery and prioritization strategies. Early stakeholder engagement and implementation planning are essential for meaningful public health impact in Pakistan.
