Sudan Launches First Malaria Vaccine in Landmark Child Health Initiative
Khartoum, Sudan, 2024-11-05 – Sudan has launched the first malaria vaccine in the world, marking a historic milestone in the fight against this deadly disease.
The vaccine, known as RTS,S, was developed over decades of research and is the first vaccine to demonstrate significant efficacy against malaria in children.
Landmark Child Health Initiative
The launch of RTS,S in Sudan is part of a landmark child health initiative led by the Sudanese Ministry of Health (MoH) and supported by UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The initiative aims to reach over 5 million children aged 5-17 months with the vaccine, which is designed to protect against Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest strain of malaria.
Malaria in Sudan
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that poses a significant health threat in Sudan, particularly during the rainy season. According to the MoH, Sudan reported over 2 million suspected malaria cases in 2023.
Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable to severe malaria, accounting for over half of all malaria deaths.
Effectiveness and Safety
RTS,S has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. In a large-scale trial in seven African countries, the vaccine was found to reduce the risk of clinical malaria by 40% and severe malaria by 30%.
Vaccination Campaign
The vaccination campaign in Sudan is being implemented through a network of health centers and mobile clinics. Trained healthcare workers are administering the vaccine free of charge to eligible children.
Global Impact
The launch of RTS,S in Sudan is a significant step towards achieving the global goal of eliminating malaria. The vaccine is expected to play a major role in reducing malaria-related illness and deaths in children, especially in high-burden areas.
Statement from Sudanese Minister of Health
Minister of Health H.E. Dr. Ahmed Saad Omer hailed the launch of RTS,S as a historic achievement for Sudan.
“This vaccine will save countless lives and protect the health of our children,” Dr. Omer said. “We are grateful to our partners for their support in making this possible.”
UNICEF and WHO Support
UNICEF and WHO have provided technical and financial support to the MoH for the launch of RTS,S in Sudan.
“This is a landmark moment in the fight against malaria,” said Dr. W. Kaifala Cham, UNICEF Sudan Representative. “The vaccine will help protect millions of children and contribute to a healthier and more prosperous future for Sudan.”
“RTS,S is a powerful tool in our arsenal to combat malaria,” said Dr. Nour Ahmed, WHO Representative for Sudan. “We urge all eligible children to be vaccinated to ensure they are protected from this deadly disease.”
Conclusion
The launch of RTS,S in Sudan is a testament to the commitment of the Sudanese government and its partners to improve child health and eliminate malaria. The vaccine is expected to have a transformative impact on the lives of millions of children and contribute to a healthier and more prosperous Sudan.
Sudan launches first malaria vaccine in landmark child health initiative
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