Why do we need a second vaccine against malaria?

Every minute, at least one child dies due to malaria globally. Children and infants below the age of three are the most at-risk group when it comes to malaria. R21 is the world’s second vaccine for malaria and the first that ensures 77 percent efficacy over 12 months of follow-up. This is more than the WHO's efficacy target of 75 percent.

How does the vaccine work?

The R21 vaccine attacks the sporozoite plasmodium, targeting the disease at its base, as this is the parasite that first enters the body and spreads malaria.

Where was the research published?

R21 or the Matrix-M is the world’s second vaccine for malaria, which is being called a “game changer.”

WHO Recommends R21 Malaria Vaccine By Oxford & Serum Institute: What We Know

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended for use of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India (SII) after it met the required safety, quality, and effectiveness standards.

I am pleased to announce that the WHO has recommended the R21/Matrix-Mâ¢ï¸ Malaria vaccine. The combined efforts of @SerumInstIndia and @UniOfOxford have come to fruition. This will save thousands of lives in Africa afflicted by Malaria, and help bridge the vast gap between theâ¦
— Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) October 3, 2023

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Topics: Malaria Vaccine

Published: 25 Apr 2023, 7:00 AM IST

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WHO Recommends R21 Malaria Vaccine By Oxford & Serum Institute: What We Know

The new R21 or Matrix M vaccine for malaria is being called a 'game changer' by medical experts. Why?

Read Latest News and Breaking News at The Quint, browse for more from fit

Topics: Malaria Vaccine