From 2 to 4 September, researchers from around the world gathered in Aarhus, Denmark, for the Readiness for Group B Streptococcus Maternal Immunization Symposium, a meeting dedicated to the opportunities and challenges of introducing maternal vaccines against Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Throughout the three-day symposium, in addition to the scientific discussions, we had the opportunity to watch videos featuring families sharing their personal experiences with GBS disease. These stories added an important perspective to the discussions, reminding us that behind the data and research we conduct are real families who could directly benefit from advances in this field.
The programme began with discussions on the current GBS landscape and Europe’s role in preparing for maternal immunisation. Speakers addressed opportunities and the data needed to guide the next steps, as well as the main challenges associated with immunisation strategies. One of the key topics was the relationship between maternal vaccination and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP), raising important questions about how these two strategies may coexist once a maternal GBS vaccine is licensed.
Updates were also presented on vaccines currently in development. On the second day, we heard about the Pfizer, MinervaX, and Omniose platforms, including findings to date and plans for the next stages. These discussions offered an opportunity to learn about different approaches to GBS vaccine development and to ask questions of those involved in this work. Another highlight was the participation of representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), who discussed regulatory pathways and frameworks to support the implementation of maternal GBS vaccines. Other important topics included vaccine safety and confidence, monitoring the distribution of GBS strains, economic considerations, and health system preparedness.
One of the most valuable parts of the symposium was the series of brainstorming activities. Researchers from different countries discussed what can be done now to prepare for vaccine implementation, considering IAP, economics, surveillance, and public health across different settings. In one of the activities, participants mapped the public health information that is already available in their countries, helping to identify gaps that still need to be addressed.
The meeting was also an opportunity for networking and mentoring. During the dinner on the first evening, early-career researchers were seated together with leading researchers in the GBS field. This informal exchange enabled conversations about research, career development, and international collaboration. A performance by a Danish choir added to the evening’s welcoming atmosphere.
On the final day, discussions focused on the economic considerations of maternal GBS vaccine implementation, next steps for European readiness, and opportunities for collaboration between research groups. It was also particularly inspiring to attend presentations from early- and mid-career researchers from countries including the United Kingdom, Kenya, Denmark, Nigeria and Brazil.
Beyond presenting the latest developments in GBS vaccines, the symposium highlighted the importance of international collaboration and early preparation to ensure that, once these vaccines become available, health systems are ready to incorporate them. The three days offered opportunities to exchange knowledge, develop new ideas, and build connections across the international GBS community.
