The Serum Institute of India and the University of Oxford have initiated the rollout of a new high-efficacy malaria vaccine, named R21/Matrix-M, in Cote d’Ivoire, West Africa. This milestone marks the first step in what experts hope will significantly reduce the burden of malaria across the continent.
Developed as a low-dose vaccine, R21/Matrix-M boasts capabilities for rapid and large-scale production, essential factors in combating the mosquito-borne disease. Following rigorous regulatory approval and clinical trials, including endorsement from the World Health Organization last year, the vaccine has been deemed highly effective and affordable.
SII CEO Adar Poonawalla expressed optimism about the vaccine’s impact, stating, “Reducing the malaria burden is finally within sight. Today’s start of the R21/Matrix-M™ vaccine rollout marks a monumental milestone after years of incredible work with our partners at Oxford and Novavax.” Poonawalla underscored the company’s commitment to equitable access, with plans to produce 100 million doses.
The Pune-based company has already manufactured 25 million doses and aims to ramp up production to meet the annual target of 100 million doses. Reflecting their commitment to affordability, SII is offering the vaccine at less than $4 per dose, making it accessible to countries in need.
Professor Adrian Hill, director of the Jenner Institute at Oxford University, emphasized the transformative potential of R21/Matrix-M. “The rollout of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine marks the start of a new era in malaria control interventions,” he said. Hill highlighted the vaccine’s high efficacy and modest pricing, envisioning widespread adoption across Africa.
R21/Matrix-M was developed through collaboration between Oxford University and SII, leveraging Novavax’s Matrix-M adjuvant technology. WHO prequalification in December 2023 validated its safety and efficacy profile, with minor adverse effects reported.
Despite progress, malaria remains a significant health challenge in Cote d’Ivoire, claiming four lives daily, predominantly among young children. The country’s Ministry of Health reported a decrease in malaria-related deaths from 3,222 in 2017 to 1,316 in 2020, yet the disease remains a leading cause of medical consultations.
Cote d’Ivoire has received 656,600 doses, sufficient to inoculate 250,000 children aged 0-23 months across 16 regions initially. The vaccine has also garnered authorization in Ghana, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic, expanding its potential impact in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Dr. Sania Nishtar, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, emphasized the collective effort needed to combat malaria. “Africa has borne the brunt of malaria for far too long,” she stated. With the introduction of effective vaccines alongside existing prevention measures like bed nets, Nishtar believes the tide against malaria can finally turn.
John Jacobs, president and CEO of Novavax, echoed these sentiments, calling the vaccine’s introduction a breakthrough in safeguarding vulnerable children. “This marks our commitment to developing vaccines that enhance public health,” Jacobs affirmed.
Looking ahead, 15 African countries are set to introduce malaria vaccines with Gavi support in 2024. Plans are in place to reach approximately 6.6 million children with the vaccine over the next two years, underscoring the broad impact expected from widescale implementation.
The launch of R21/Matrix-M represents a pivotal moment in the global fight against malaria, offering hope to millions across Africa. With continued collaboration and commitment, the vision of a malaria-free future is closer than ever before.
