Nigeria, Nation with Highest Malaria Deaths, Begins Vaccine Rollout

Nigeria, which records more malaria fatalities than any other country globally, has commenced its initial vaccination program against the disease. This West African nation accounts for nearly one-third of all annual malaria-related deaths. The R21/Matrix-M vaccine, now being introduced, is the second to receive approval from the World Health Organization (WHO) and is administered to children aged between five and 15 months. Researchers indicate it is 75% effective, though health experts advise its use in conjunction with other malaria prevention methods, such as mosquito nets and insecticides. The deployment began in Bayelsa and Kebbi, two of the most severely impacted states, with plans to extend coverage nationwide by next year. Happiness Idia-Wilson’s 11-month-old son was the first to receive the vaccine at a ceremony in Bayelsa. She stated her motivation was “for the safety of the child, for him to be protected.” The mother further remarked, “I will tell mothers, and I will invite people [to be vaccinated].” Prof Seiyefa Brisibe, Bayelsa’s commissioner for health, indicated that the state intends to conduct public health campaigns across all local languages to encourage vaccine uptake. According to the WHO, in 2022, Nigeria was responsible for 27% of worldwide malaria infections and 31% of malaria-related fatalities, with children under five and pregnant women identified as the most susceptible groups. The African continent collectively experienced 95% of these deaths, totaling approximately 580,000 individuals. Dr Walter Mulombo, the WHO representative in Nigeria, stated, “We are confident that this vaccine, in combination with other preventive measures, will drastically reduce the burden of malaria in Nigeria and help us move closer to achieving the goal of a malaria-free Africa.” Government projections indicate an annual loss of $1.1bn (£870m) for Nigeria, attributed to diminished productivity and healthcare costs associated with malaria. The R21/Matrix-M vaccine, developed by the Jenner Institute at Oxford University, involves a regimen of three doses given four weeks apart, followed by a booster dose after one year. Previously this year, Ivory Coast and the Democratic Republic of Congo likewise commenced the use of this vaccine. Another malaria vaccine, RTS,S, has undergone trials in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi. However, Nigeria was not part of the subsequent deployment of that particular jab by the WHO across 12 African nations.