The World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners have announced plans to distribute approximately 18 million doses of the world’s first malaria vaccine to 12 African nations by 2025.
These countries include Malawi, Ghana, and Kenya, where the Mosquirix vaccine has already been utilized in pilot programs. Due to limited supply and overwhelming demand, priority will be given to countries with the most urgent need, as well as those where the vaccine can have the maximum impact.
Regrettably, Mozambique and Sudan have been excluded from this distribution due to their high rates of vaccine drop-outs. The WHO has made this decision to ensure that the vaccine reaches the intended recipients effectively.
The vaccine, developed by the British pharmaceutical company GSK, has the potential to save one life for every 200 children vaccinated, according to the WHO. Malaria remains a significant threat in Africa, claiming the lives of approximately half a million children under the age of five each year.