Oxford R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine receives WHO recommendation for use paving the way for global roll-out

Following a rigorous, detailed scientific review by the WHO’s independent advisory body, the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) and the Malaria Policy Advisory Group (MPAG), the R21/Matrix-MTM malaria vaccine has been recommended for use. To date the R21/Matrix-MTM malaria vaccine has been licensed for use in Ghana, Nigeria and Burkina Faso. The Phase III results improve understanding of how vaccine efficacy varies with age and across regions in relation to transmission intensity and seasonality. Notably, the Serum Institute has already established production capacity for 100 million doses per annum, which will be doubled over the next two years. Vaccine Roll-OutWith the approval and recommendations by the WHO, additional regulatory approvals are expected to follow shortly and R21/Matrix-M vaccine doses could be ready to begin wider roll-out as early as next year.