In a landmark moment for malaria control, Ivory Coast became the first country to launch a large-scale vaccination campaign using the R21/Matrix-M vaccine.
This new three-dose vaccine, developed by Oxford University, offers promising protection against malaria, a disease that disproportionately affects children under five in Africa.
The campaign aims to vaccinate roughly 250,000 children under two years old in Ivory Coast.
R21/Matrix-M offers over 75% effectiveness in preventing severe malaria and death in the first year, with extended protection for an additional year through a booster dose.
This surpasses the previously available Mosquirix vaccine, which required four doses and offered short-lived protection.
The affordability of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine is another key advantage. India’s Serum Institute has already manufactured 25 million doses, with plans to produce at least 100 million annually, at a cost of around $4 per dose.
This accessibility is crucial for tackling malaria, a disease responsible for over 94% of global malaria cases and deaths, concentrated primarily in Africa.
“This vaccination launch signifies our unwavering commitment to investing in the future of Ivory Coast – our children,” declared Pierre Demba, the country’s health minister.
Adrian Hill, representing Oxford University, echoed this sentiment, calling the rollout “a new era in malaria control” and expressing hope for wider availability across Africa.
However, experts emphasize that the fight against malaria requires a multi-pronged approach.
While vaccines play a vital role, continued efforts in insecticide spraying, improved treatments, and bed net usage remain essential to control the spread of the disease.
With the R21/Matrix-M vaccine rollout, Ivory Coast paves the way for a brighter future in the battle against malaria, while other African nations like Central African Republic, Chad, and South Sudan are also preparing to utilize this promising new weapon.
