Global Health Preparedness Frameworks and Recombinant Vaccine Platforms: A Public Health Perspective on Regulations and System Readiness

Background/objectives. Emerging viral diseases represent an increasing threat to global health security, driven by environmental change, globalization, and intensified human–animal–environment interactions. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical weaknesses in preparedness systems but also demonstrated the transformative potential of recombinant vaccine technologies, which enable rapid, scalable, and safe responses to novel pathogens. We aim to examine the role of recombinant vaccine platforms in the management of emerging viral diseases, emphasizing their contribution to health system preparedness and exploring strategies for their integration into preparedness frameworks. Methods. We synthesized the current evidence on recombinant vaccine platforms (viral vector, protein subunit, DNA, and mRNA) through a targeted review of the scientific literature, regulatory documents, and global health policy reports. Drawing from experiences like COVID-19 (mRNA vaccines) and Ebola (rVSV-ZEBOV), we analyzed the advantages, challenges, and lessons from initiatives such as the CEPI, BARDA, HERA, and WHO frameworks. Results. Recombinant vaccine platforms offer significant advantages for epidemic preparedness through rapid adaptability, standardized production, and strong safety profiles. Nonetheless, challenges remain in manufacturing scalability, cold-chain logistics, regulatory harmonization, and equitable global access. Global initiatives such as the CEPI, WHO-led programs, BARDA, and regional manufacturing networks exemplify this collaborative approach, while regulatory mechanisms have proven to be essential to timely vaccine deployment. Conclusions. Recombinant vaccines have redefined preparedness by coupling scientific innovation with operational agility. Strengthening global coordination, regional production capacity, and public trust is essential to ensure that technological progress translates into equitable and effective public health impacts.