First Batch Of New Malaria Vaccine Gets Delivered
South Sudan received its inaugural shipment of a new malaria vaccine from the U.N. health agency on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fight against the disease, which stands as the leading cause of death among children in the region.
The delivery consists of over 645,000 doses of the R21 malaria vaccine, slated for distribution across 28 counties with the highest malaria burden. In 2022 alone, South Sudan recorded an estimated 2.8 million malaria cases and 6,680 deaths, reflecting one of the highest rates of malaria incidence in the region.
Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng emphasized the importance of the new vaccine, alongside existing preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets and prompt access to medical care, in the nation’s efforts to combat malaria and work towards its elimination.
Various stakeholders have expressed optimism about the vaccine’s potential impact. UNICEF South Sudan Representative Hamida Lasseko underscored the significance of proactive government engagement and robust health systems in facilitating the successful implementation of the immunization program.
Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO’s representative for South Sudan, highlighted the integration of the vaccine into routine immunization efforts, which he believes will bolster the delivery of comprehensive malaria prevention to those most vulnerable to the disease.
The R21 vaccine, endorsed by WHO in 2023, follows the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine, which received WHO approval in 2021. Considered a more cost-effective and widely available option, the R21 vaccine boasts over 75% efficacy and maintains protection for at least a year with a booster dose, according to research findings.
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