Institute of India Leads the Charge with First Shipment of R21/Matrix-M™ Malaria Vaccine arrives South Sudan – Africa
The Serum Institute of India (SII) shipped its first consignment of the R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine to Africa on 20 May 2024, marking a historic step in the fight against malaria across the globe. This collaborative effort with the University of Oxford and Novavax underscores India’s pivotal role in World’s health and vaccine distribution.
Juba, South Sudan – In a monumental step towards protecting the lives of millions of children, South Sudan received over 645,000 doses of the revolutionary R21 malaria vaccine from WHO – World Health Organization on 31 May 2024.
Malaria: A Persistent Threat
South Sudan, a country grappling with one of the highest malaria incidence rates in the region, marked a significant breakthrough as the first consignment of the R21 malaria vaccine arrived in the capital, Juba. This delivery represents a beacon of hope for a nation where malaria remains the biggest killer of children.
Malaria has been an unwavering adversary in South Sudan. The statistics paint a grim picture: in 2022 alone, the country recorded an estimated 2.8 million cases and 6,680 deaths due to malaria. On average, South Sudan sees approximately 7,630 malaria cases and 18 deaths each day. These numbers underscore the urgent need for effective interventions to combat this deadly disease.
“Malaria is a major concern for our country. We are committed to reducing the impact of malaria and improving health outcomes for our children. The continued use of this vaccine, alongside other preventive measures such as insecticide-treatment, bed nets and timely access to medical care, will be instrumental in our efforts to eliminate malaria in South Sudan.”
-Hon. Yolanda Awel Deng, Minister of Health, South Sudan.
Collaborative Efforts and Global Partnerships
The delivery of the R21 vaccine is the result of collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Health, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, WHO, and various health partners. This united front highlights a shared commitment to integrating these life-saving vaccines into the national immunization program.
The World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed the R21 vaccine, following the successful introduction of the RTS,S vaccine in other parts of Africa. This endorsement marks a turning point in the malaria elimination program and ensures a more robust supply of vaccines for malaria-affected countries, particularly in Africa.
Safe and Effective Vaccination
These vaccines have been proven safe and effective in protecting children from malaria, potentially saving countless lives. With the support of Gavi, UNICEF is working to procure enough vaccines to immunize over 45 million children worldwide in the coming years.
“The expanded availability of malaria vaccines heralds a new chapter in combating this deadly disease. Governments’ proactive engagement and health systems’ preparedness are pivotal in facilitating the successful rollout of the immunization program. Training, communication strategies, and robust cold chain infrastructure are essential components in ensuring the widespread distribution of these important vaccines to protect the children of the country.”
– Hamida Lasseko, UNICEF South Sudan Representative.
A New Era in Malaria Prevention
“The inclusion of the malaria vaccine in the routine immunization program represents a crucial addition to the existing arsenal of malaria prevention and control measures.”
–Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative for South Sudan.“
This vaccine provides an additional, effective intervention to protect children and reduce the burden of this devastating disease. Its integration into routine immunization will enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive malaria prevention to those most at risk.”
About the Ministry of Health of South Sudan
The Ministry of Health of South Sudan is dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of the nation’s population through comprehensive healthcare initiatives, disease prevention programs, and capacity-building efforts. The Ministry collaborates closely with national and international partners to address the health challenges facing South Sudan, with a steadfast commitment to achieving universal health coverage and combating infectious diseases.
About the World Health Organization (WHO)
Founded in 1948, WHO is the United Nations agency that connects nations, partners, and people to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere, can attain the highest level of health. WHO leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage, direct and coordinate the world’s response to health emergencies, and promote healthier lives from pregnancy care through old age.
About UNICEF
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. As the world’s leading organization for children, UNICEF tirelessly reaches the most vulnerable and marginalized children, providing healthcare, nutrition, education, and protection services that transform lives and build brighter futures.
Serum Institute of India: A Global Leader
Founded in 1966, the Serum Institute of India has emerged as a global leader in vaccine manufacturing. Known for providing affordable vaccines to over 170 countries, including the US, UK, and Europe, SII holds the distinction of being the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer. Located in Manjri, Pune, SII’s multifunctional production facility boasts an annual capacity of 4 billion doses, which has contributed to saving over 30 million lives globally.
SII’s mission centers on producing life-saving immunobiological drugs with a focus on affordability and accessibility. The institute has played a crucial role in reducing the prices of essential vaccines, such as those for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, HIB, BCG, r-Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. Notable products include ‘Pneumosil,’ the world’s most affordable PCV, and ‘Cervavac,’ the first indigenous qHPV vaccine in India. Recently, SII has been pivotal in the global fight against COVID-19, delivering over 2 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine worldwide.
To further its global reach and ensure widespread vaccine availability, SII established Serum Life Sciences Ltd, a subsidiary in the UK. Committed to innovation, SII continues to champion affordable vaccines, making a significant impact on global health.
Collaborative Effort with the University of Oxford and Novavax
The R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine is a result of a collaborative effort involving the Serum Institute of India, the University of Oxford, and Novavax. This vaccine incorporates Novavax’s Matrix-M™ adjuvant technology, which enhances the immune response. Developed through years of rigorous research and trials, the R21/Matrix-M™ vaccine has shown high efficacy and received WHO recommendation for use in children in malaria-endemic regions.
The University of Oxford, globally recognized for its research and teaching excellence, and its Jenner Institute have been pivotal in this development. The R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine marks the culmination of 30 years of malaria vaccine research at Oxford’s Jenner Institute. Known for its groundbreaking research and innovation, the University of Oxford has consistently been at the forefront of global health advancements. The Jenner Institute’s dedication to developing effective vaccines has been instrumental in bringing the R21/Matrix-M™ vaccine to fruition.
Supporting Organizations and Their Contributions for development of the Vaccine
The successful development and distribution of the R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine have been supported by several key organizations:
- Novavax: A global biotechnology company based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA, Novavax is dedicated to improving health by discovering, developing, and commercializing innovative vaccines to protect against serious infectious diseases. Novavax’s differentiated vaccine platform, which includes its patented Matrix-M™ adjuvant, has been crucial in enhancing the immune response of the R21 vaccine.
- European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP): The EDCTP has provided significant support for the clinical trials and research necessary for the development of the R21 vaccine.
- Wellcome Trust: A global charitable foundation supporting science to solve urgent health challenges, the Wellcome Trust has been instrumental in funding the research and development of the R21 vaccine.
- European Investment Bank (EIB): The EIB has supported the financing of the production and distribution infrastructure necessary to ensure the wide availability of the vaccine.
A Landmark Event
The flag-off ceremony for the initial shipment took place at SII’s facility in Pune, attended by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Eric Garcetti, US Ambassador to India. This event underscored the successful global partnership between the Serum Institute of India, Novavax, and the University of Oxford.
By May 31, 2024, South Sudan had received 645,000 doses of this new malaria vaccine, further bolstering efforts to combat the disease in the region. This milestone in vaccine distribution is expected to significantly reduce the burden of malaria, particularly among the most vulnerable populations. The Serum Institute of India has already manufactured 25 million doses of the vaccine and has the capacity to scale up production to 100 million doses annually, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, affordability, and accessibility in the fight against malaria.
Looking Ahead
The delivery of the R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine marks a new chapter in the global fight against malaria. This achievement is a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through international cooperation and dedication to public health. As the vaccine begins its journey across Africa, it promises to save countless lives and improve public health outcomes in the affected regions.
This landmark event underscores India’s leadership in global health and the collective commitment of international partners to combat one of the world’s most deadly diseases.
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