Breakthrough in Malaria Vaccine Distribution Across Africa

Source:CNN International
July 2, 2025
Africa, Nigeria
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major
positive
malaria
vaccine
health
Africa
WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on July 2, 2025, a major milestone in the fight against malaria with the rollout of a new vaccine, Mosquirix Plus, across 10 African countries, including Nigeria. The vaccine, which showed 85% efficacy in recent trials, targets children under five, the demographic most vulnerable to the disease. Over 2 million doses arrived in Abuja on July 1, with distribution set to begin in high-risk areas like the Niger Delta by mid-July. Health Minister Dr. Osagie Ehanire described the initiative as a game-changer, projecting a 30% reduction in malaria deaths within two years. Funded by the Global Fund and GAVI Alliance, the program aims to vaccinate 50 million children by 2027. Challenges remain, including cold chain logistics and public skepticism about vaccines. International partners pledged additional support to ensure equitable access, with WHO calling it a 'historic step' toward eradicating malaria.

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