Ivory Coast Launches Malaria Vaccine Campaign for Children

Health workers in Ivory Coast have started administering the new R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine to children under two, marking the beginning of a regional effort aimed at combating one of Africa's deadliest diseases. The vaccine, developed by Oxford University, has shown over 75% effectiveness in preventing severe malaria and death.

Ivory Coast has commenced a regional campaign to vaccinate children against malaria, utilizing the revolutionary R21/Matrix-M vaccine. Health workers began administering the vaccine to children under two on Monday, hoping to reduce the toll of one of Africa's leading child killers.

This makes Ivory Coast the first nation to roll out the new vaccine developed by Oxford University and approved by the World Health Organization last October. The vaccine, which requires three doses, has demonstrated over 75% effectiveness at preventing severe disease and sustaining protection for at least another year with a booster.

More than 94% of the global malaria cases and deaths occur in Africa. The new campaign signifies a significant investment by the Ivory Coast government in the health and future of its children. Adrian Hill from Oxford University heralded this initiative as the start of a new era in malaria control, urging other African nations to follow suit. However, experts stress that additional measures like insecticide spraying and bed net usage remain vital for comprehensive malaria management.

(With inputs from agencies.)