Recent discussions surrounding tuberculosis (TB) vaccine clinical trials in Indonesia have sparked public debate, particularly on social media. In response, the Center for Tropical Medicine at UGM featured dr. Riris Andono Ahmad, MPH, Ph.D., an epidemiologist from the Center for Tropical Medicine at UGM, on TropmedAsk to answer public questions and provide reliable information about the clinical trial process, participant safety, and the need for a new TB vaccine.

One of the main concerns raised was whether clinical trial participants would become “guinea pigs.” Dr. Riris, also known as dr. Donnie, explained that participation in clinical trials is entirely voluntary. Participants cannot be forced to take part and must meet specific eligibility criteria before being enrolled in a study.

Another frequently asked question concerned the safety of the TB vaccine trial. Dr. Donnie explained that the vaccine had already undergone earlier phases of clinical trials before progressing to phase III. At this stage, the trial focuses on determining whether the vaccine can effectively prevent TB. Safety has been assessed in the preceding phases, and the research process is monitored by independent bodies at both national and international levels to identify and manage potential risks.

The development of a more effective TB vaccine is particularly relevant for Indonesia. During the session, Dr. Donnie highlighted Indonesia’s substantial TB burden, with around one million cases and approximately 130,000 deaths each year. Conducting clinical trials in Indonesia can therefore help assess how safe and effective a vaccine is for the Indonesian population, while potentially contributing to efforts to prevent transmission and reduce TB-related deaths.

Through TropmedAsk, the Center for Tropical Medicine at UGM encourages the public to approach discussions about clinical trials with reliable and accurate information. Understanding how clinical trials are conducted, how participants are protected, and why new TB vaccines are being developed can help the public better understand their potential role in strengthening TB prevention efforts in Indonesia.

Please check out the full version of TropmedAsk: TB Vaccine Clinical Trial here.