Malaria Vaccine: A Milestone with Caveats – Mosquirix Efficacy and Challenges

by Peter November 26, 2020

written by Peter November 26, 2020

Malaria Vaccine: A Major Milestone with Some Caveats

Background

Malaria, a mosquito-borne disease, remains a significant threat, particularly in Africa, where it claims the life of a child every minute. Scientists and public health officials have made progress in combating malaria, but the search for an effective vaccine has been ongoing.

Mosquirix: The First Malaria Vaccine

The pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline, with funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has developed a vaccine called Mosquirix (RTS,S), which has recently passed a major regulatory hurdle. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recommended the vaccine as safe and effective for use in at-risk babies in Africa.

Efficacy and Challenges

While the approval of Mosquirix is a significant step forward, it is important to note that the vaccine is not as effective as initially hoped. In a large clinical trial, it reduced malaria episodes by about one-third in young children in sub-Saharan Africa, falling short of the 50% efficacy target and far from the 95% efficacy typically desired for vaccines.

Additionally, Mosquirix requires three doses to be administered to babies. Over time, its effectiveness wanes, necessitating a booster dose. These factors raise concerns about the cost-benefit analysis of the vaccine, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Weighing the Risks and Benefits

Despite the limitations, the EMA has determined that the benefits of Mosquirix outweigh the risks. The vaccine is the most advanced in development, and GlaxoSmithKline is already working on a second-generation version.

Experts acknowledge that even a partially effective vaccine could have a significant impact in reducing the burden of malaria. For children who experience multiple severe malaria episodes annually, the vaccine could potentially transform their lives.

Next Steps

The World Health Organization (WHO) will now decide whether to recommend the use of Mosquirix and provide guidance on its implementation. Individual countries will then make their own decisions on whether to adopt the vaccine.

Progress and the Future

While Mosquirix is not a perfect vaccine, it represents a significant milestone in the fight against malaria. GlaxoSmithKline’s ongoing research and development efforts hold promise for the future development of more effective and convenient malaria vaccines.

If the approval process proceeds smoothly, the first doses of Mosquirix could be available to babies in 2017, offering new hope in the fight against this devastating disease.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.