Background
Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) is a deadly pathogen, causing severe infections and 340,000 rheumatic heart disease (RHD) related deaths. Global disease burden estimates for Strep A re limited, hindering investment in prevention approaches including vaccine development in resource-poor countries. To better understand Strep A’s impact in Fiji, a 24-month cohort study, including blood specimen collection, will be conducted as part of the Strep A Vaccine Global Consortium (SAVAC) multi-country project, guided by a culturally sensitive community engagement strategy to enhance participant involvement.
Approach
The project is led by Fijian researchers and the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), adapting SAVAC protocol to the local context using the Fijian Vanua Research Framework and Village by Laws to ensure cultural sensitivity with scientific validity. A community engagement strategy was developed in consultation with the community to guide research in this Indigenous context, ensuring cultural sensitivity, respect for the community’s voice, valid informed consent, and the promotion of awareness and acceptance. The strategy focuses on appropriate conduct of research in Fiji, embedded within the health system and respecting local and Indigenous structures at all levels: National (Ministry iTaukei Affairs), Provincial, Community (Vanua), Family (Tokatoka) and individual household (Lewe-ni-vuvale).
Significance
The expected outcome of the strategy is to create a platform that ensures community members' rights and interests are paramount, with participation and consultation from the ground up, and prior informed consent at all levels. Lessons learned will improve future community engagement strategies, emphasizing awareness, support, acceptance, and participation in surveillance.