Cameroon Rolls Out World’s First Malaria Vaccine
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Health
Cameroon has initiated the world's inaugural routine vaccine program against malaria, with the expectation of preserving the lives of numerous children throughout Africa.
A health facility near Yaoundé administered the symbolic first dose to an infant named Daniella on Monday.
Annually, Africa witnesses 600,000 malaria-related deaths, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Cameroon has initiated the world's inaugural routine vaccine program against malaria, with the expectation of preserving the lives of numerous children throughout Africa.
A health facility near Yaoundé administered the symbolic first dose to an infant named Daniella on Monday.
Annually, Africa witnesses 600,000 malaria-related deaths, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
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At least 80% of the annual malaria-related deaths involve children under the
age of five. Cameroon is providing the RTS,S vaccine at no cost to all infants
up to six months old, with a total of four doses required. Health authorities
have planned to administer these doses concurrently with other routine
childhood vaccines for the convenience of parents.
Following successful pilot initiatives in Kenya, Ghana, and Malawi, Unicef reports a 13% reduction in malaria deaths among eligible-age children due to the vaccine.
Following successful pilot initiatives in Kenya, Ghana, and Malawi, Unicef reports a 13% reduction in malaria deaths among eligible-age children due to the vaccine.
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