A Historic Approval
The World Health Organisation granted full approval to the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, developed by Oxford University and the Serum Institute of India, recommending it for children aged 5 months to 3 years in high-transmission areas of sub-Saharan Africa.
Efficacy and Safety
Phase 3 trials across Burkina Faso, Kenya, Mali, and Tanzania showed 77% efficacy against clinical malaria over 12 months, with a booster dose maintaining protection through a second malaria season. No serious safety concerns were identified in 4,800 trial participants.
"Malaria kills a child every two minutes. Today we have a new weapon, and we intend to use it," said the WHO Director-General.
Rollout Plan
GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, has secured 18 million doses for initial distribution across 12 African nations. At $2-4 per dose — far below the cost of existing alternatives — the vaccine is designed to be accessible to the world's poorest health systems.
