The new vaccine developed by the University of Oxford to protect against malaria is called the R21/Matrix-M vaccine. It is a pre-erythrocytic vaccine, which means that it targets the malaria parasite before it enters the bloodstream. The vaccine is made up of two components: a protein called R21, which is specific to the malaria parasite, and an adjuvant called Matrix-M, which helps to boost the immune response.
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine has been shown to be effective in clinical trials. In a phase II trial, the vaccine was 77% effective at preventing severe malaria in children. In a phase III trial, the vaccine was 71% effective at preventing clinical malaria in children.
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is a promising new tool for the prevention of malaria. It is safe and effective, and it can be manufactured at a low cost. The vaccine is currently being evaluated by regulatory agencies in several countries, and it is expected to be licensed for use in the near future
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Malaria is a serious disease that kills millions of people each year, mostly children under the age of five. The R21/Matrix-M vaccine could help to reduce the burden of malaria and save lives.
In addition to the R21/Matrix-M vaccine, there are a number of other malaria vaccines in development. These include the Mosquirix vaccine, which is currently licensed for use in children in Africa, and the RTS,S vaccine, which is currently in phase III trials.
The development of new malaria vaccines is an important step in the fight against this deadly disease. With continued research and development, it is possible to develop a malaria vaccine that is effective, affordable, and accessible to everyone who needs it.
Here are some additional information about the R21/Matrix-M vaccine:
- The vaccine is given as two injections, four weeks apart.
- The vaccine is expected to be effective for at least three years.
- The vaccine is not 100% effective, so it is important to continue to use other measures to prevent malaria, such as bed nets and insect repellent.
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is a promising new tool for the prevention of malaria. It is safe, effective, and affordable. With the continued development of new malaria vaccines, it is possible to one day eliminate this deadly disease.