R21/MatrixM is an innovative malaria vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India. This vaccine has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO), although it is yet to achieve full approval.
The vaccine underwent testing in various countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Tanzania. Notably, Nigeria, Ghana, and Burkina Faso have already authorized its use for children under three years old.
The results of the trials reveal that R21/MatrixM is particularly effective in younger children, specifically those aged 5 to 17 months. The vaccine demonstrated a 75% efficacy rate in regions experiencing seasonal malaria and a 68% efficacy rate in areas with year-round malaria transmission.
Children are administered three initial doses spaced four weeks apart, followed by a booster shot one year later. This regimen is designed to ensure optimal protection against malaria.
Yes, the effectiveness of the vaccine may diminish over time. However, the booster shot is instrumental in maintaining its protective effects against malaria.
The cost of each dose of the vaccine is projected to range between $2 and $4, making it a potentially affordable option for widespread immunization.
R21/MatrixM shows significant improvement over previous malaria vaccines. The older vaccine was only 56% effective in children aged 5 to 17 months, even after one year. In contrast, R21/MatrixM offers enhanced effectiveness, promising better protection for vulnerable populations.
Yes, R21/MatrixM not only protects against malaria but also decreases the presence of malaria parasites in the bloodstream. This reduction could potentially lower transmission rates, contributing to better public health outcomes.
Future plans include conducting additional tests and seeking full approval from the WHO. The Serum Institute has ambitious plans to produce over 100 million doses annually, aiming to meet global demand and enhance malaria prevention efforts.
Q1. What is the primary function of the R21/MatrixM vaccine?
Answer: R21/MatrixM is designed to provide immunity against malaria, particularly in young children who are most at risk of severe malaria complications.
Q2. What age group is primarily targeted for the R21/MatrixM vaccine?
Answer: The vaccine primarily targets children aged 5 to 17 months, as studies indicate high effectiveness in this age group.
Q3. How does the cost of R21/MatrixM compare to other vaccines?
Answer: Each dose of R21/MatrixM costs between $2 and $4, which is competitive compared to other vaccines, making it accessible for broader distribution.
Q4. What impact does R21/MatrixM have on malaria transmission rates?
Answer: The vaccine not only protects against malaria but also reduces the number of malaria parasites in the blood, thereby potentially lowering transmission rates within communities.
Q5. What are the future prospects for the R21/MatrixM vaccine?
Answer: The future prospects include further testing and efforts to obtain full WHO approval, along with plans for large-scale production to address global malaria challenges.
Question 1: What is the primary manufacturer of the R21/MatrixM vaccine?
A) Serum Institute of India
B) International Vaccine Institute
C) Oxford Biomedica
D) GlaxoSmithKline
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Which age group is primarily tested for the R21/MatrixM vaccine?
A) Adults
B) Children under 5
C) Infants under 1
D) Children aged 5-17 months
Correct Answer: D
Question 3: What is the reported efficacy of R21/MatrixM in areas with seasonal malaria?
A) 56%
B) 68%
C) 75%
D) 80%
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: How often is the booster shot for R21/MatrixM administered?
A) Every 6 months
B) Every year
C) Every 2 years
D) Every 3 years
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the expected production capacity of the Serum Institute for R21/MatrixM?
A) 50 million doses annually
B) 100 million doses annually
C) 150 million doses annually
D) 200 million doses annually
Correct Answer: B
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