Sudan Launches First Malaria Vaccine in Landmark Child Health Initiative
November 5, 2024
Khartoum, Sudan – In a groundbreaking move, Sudan has become the first African country to launch the world’s first malaria vaccine, RTS,S, as part of a comprehensive child health initiative. The vaccine, developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), targets the deadliest form of malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, which is responsible for the majority of malaria deaths globally.
Background on Malaria in Sudan
Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease that poses a significant public health challenge in Sudan. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Sudan had an estimated 2.3 million cases of malaria in 2022, with over 1,000 deaths, primarily affecting children and pregnant women.
Significance of the Malaria Vaccine Launch
RTS,S is the first and only licensed malaria vaccine recommended by the WHO for widespread use in children. The vaccine has been proven to reduce severe malaria cases and deaths by approximately 30% in clinical trials. It is expected to save thousands of lives in Sudan, where malaria is a leading cause of preventable child mortality.
Implementation of the Vaccine Program
The malaria vaccine will be introduced in three phases:
- Phase 1: Initial pilot phase in selected health facilities in eight high-burden states
- Phase 2: Scale-up to all high-burden states within one year
- Phase 3: Nationwide implementation by 2027
The vaccine will be administered to children between 5 and 17 months of age, following routine childhood immunization schedules.
Collaboration and Funding
The malaria vaccine initiative in Sudan is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health, GSK, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and other international donors. The program is funded by a $100 million grant from the Global Fund, which will cover the cost of vaccine procurement, distribution, and administration.
Impact on Child Health
In addition to its potential to reduce malaria cases and deaths, the malaria vaccine launch is expected to have a wider impact on child health in Sudan. By protecting children from malaria, the vaccine will allow them to attend school regularly, improve their nutrition, and increase their overall well-being.
Minister of Health’s Statement
The launch of the malaria vaccine was hailed by the Sudanese Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Mohamed El-Awad, as a “historic milestone in the fight against malaria and a testament to Sudan’s commitment to improving the health of its children.”
Conclusion
The launch of the malaria vaccine in Sudan marks a pivotal moment in the global fight against this deadly disease. It is a testament to the power of scientific innovation and the importance of collaboration in addressing public health challenges. With its commitment to providing access to this life-saving vaccine, Sudan is setting an example for other malaria-endemic countries and contributing to the broader goal of eradicating malaria worldwide.
Sudan launches first malaria vaccine in landmark child health initiative
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Health a new article on 2024-11-05 12:00 titled “Sudan launches first malaria vaccine in landmark child health initiative”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
7