May 26, 2024. A new malaria vaccine has arrived in the Central African Republic.

May 26, 2024

UNICEF delivered 43,000 doses of R21 malaria vaccine to Bangui, Central African Republicand another 120,000 doses are expected in the coming days. The country was the first to receive the R21 vaccine for routine childhood immunization, a crucial achievement in the fight against malaria, which continues to severely impact the region.

WHO recommendations for the use of R21 and RTS,S vaccines ensure sufficient supply of vaccines to scale up vaccination in Africa. Both vaccines have proven safe and effective, with RTS,S reducing child mortality by 13% in a pilot program in Ghana, Kenya and Malawi. In 2022, the Central African Republic reported approximately 1,733,000 cases malaria, which leads to 5180 deaths.

The introduction of these vaccines is part of global efforts to reduce child mortality and strengthen health systems in endemic regions. Collaboration between Gavi, UNICEF, WHO and local authorities is essential to ensure effective implementation, including communication plans and training of health workers.

Malaria Central African Republic

More information about malaria in the Central African Republic

• 2013. There have been 295,088 cases and 635 deaths.
• 2003. 95,644 cases have been reported.

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