Yes, there are vaccines available for malaria.
- RTS,S (Mosquirix): This is the first approved vaccine for malaria. It requires at least three doses in infants by age 2, and a fourth dose extends the protection for another 1–2 years. The vaccine reduces hospital admissions from severe malaria by around 30%.
- R21/Matrix-M: This vaccine was developed by the University of Oxford and is the first to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal of a malaria vaccine with at least 75% efficacy. In April 2023, Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority approved the use of the R21 vaccine for use in children aged between five months and three years old. Following Ghana’s decision, Nigeria provisionally approved the R21 vaccine.
Please note that while these vaccines can help prevent malaria, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Also, these vaccines should be used in tandem with other preventive measures such as insecticide-treated nets and indoor spraying to prevent the disease.
Studentera Selected answer as best December 28, 2023