• Malaria Vaccines RTS,S and R21 Gain Momentum in Global Fight Against Deadly Disease

  • Jan 1 2025
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

Malaria Vaccines RTS,S and R21 Gain Momentum in Global Fight Against Deadly Disease

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  • Summary

  • In the ongoing battle against malaria, significant advancements have been made, particularly with the deployment and recommendation of two malaria vaccines: RTS,S and R21.

    As of the latest updates, both the RTS,S and R21 malaria vaccines have been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for their safety and efficacy in preventing malaria in children, especially in areas with moderate to high transmission rates. The WHO updated its recommendation in October 2023, emphasizing the use of these vaccines to combat _Plasmodium falciparum_ malaria in endemic areas[1].

    The RTS,S vaccine, prequalified by WHO in July 2022, has already shown substantial public health impact in pilot programs. It has led to a 13% drop in mortality among eligible children, a significant reduction in hospitalizations for severe malaria, and ensured that over 90% of children have access to at least one malaria prevention intervention[1].

    The R21/Matrix-M vaccine, co-developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India, was granted prequalification status by WHO in December 2023. This vaccine has demonstrated high efficacy, particularly in highly seasonal transmission settings, reducing malaria cases by more than half during the first year after vaccination. A fourth dose in the second year of life prolongs this protection[1][3][4].

    Nigeria, one of the countries most severely affected by malaria, has recently rolled out the R21/Matrix-M vaccine. With regulatory approval and launch announced in October 2024, Nigeria is among the first countries to implement this new vaccine. The Serum Institute of India has committed to manufacturing 100 million doses annually, ensuring a steady supply at an affordable price of less than $4 per dose[4].

    The rollout of both vaccines is well underway, with 17 African countries currently offering malaria vaccines as part of their childhood immunization programs. Additional countries are expected to introduce these vaccines in 2025, driven by high demand and the support of global health organizations such as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and UNICEF[1].

    Despite these advancements, challenges such as vaccine distribution, access, and acceptance remain significant hurdles. However, with concerted efforts and resources, these vaccines are poised to make a substantial impact in eradicating malaria. The WHO and other global health entities are working tirelessly to increase supply and ensure equitable access to these life-saving vaccines[2][3].

    In summary, the recent prequalification and rollout of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine, alongside the continued success of the RTS,S vaccine, mark critical steps forward in the global fight against malaria. These vaccines hold the potential to save tens of thousands of young lives annually, particularly in Africa, where the disease burden is highest.
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