Uganda ready for malaria vaccine in routine immunisation schedule

16 October 2024, 10:37 am

By Byamukama Alozious

The Ministry of Health announced the introduction of the malaria vaccine into Uganda’s routine immunisation schedule. Starting April 2025, children below five years will receive four doses of the vaccine, beginning at six months.

The vaccine, prequalified by the World Health Organisation, offers up to 77% protection against malaria parasite and significantly reduces severe malaria cases, hospitalisations, and deaths.

According to Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, the introduction of the malaria vaccine strengthens the government’s efforts to reduce malaria incidence and severity, contributing to overall childhood survival and reduction of infant/child mortality.

The vaccine will initially be rolled out in 105 districts, targeting 1.28 million children, focusing on areas with high malaria transmission rates, including Northern regions – Gulu, Kitgum, Lamwo, Nwoya, and Pader, Eastern regions – Bugiri, Busia, Iganga, Jinja, and Mayuge, and Western regions – Bundibugyo, Kasese among others

However, Kampala Metropolitan and Kigezi regions will be targeted in later phases due to relatively low malaria transmission rates. “It’s crucial we prioritise areas with high malaria burden,” Atwine explained in her statement.

The vaccine will be administered at health facilities, static clinics, and community outreach sites.

Funding for the vaccine introduction comes from the government, GAVI, Global Fund, UNICEF, and other partners, with the government committing $641,046 towards the rollout.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health plans a catch-up immunisation campaign in November to protect zero-dose children against vaccine-preventable diseases.

Uganda joins the global community in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Expanded Program on Immunisation (EPI), celebrating significant progress in increasing immunisation coverage and reducing disease outbreak