Togo Launches Nationwide Malaria Vaccination Campaign, Prioritizing Children Under Five
Lomé, Togo – In a significant step towards combating malaria, Togo today began administering the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine nationwide, aiming to protect approximately 269,000 children under five years old. The rollout is a collaborative effort between the Togolese government and key global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, alongside other technical and financial partners.
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Togo, with cases peaking during the rainy season due to increased mosquito populations. Children are disproportionately affected, accounting for 64% of confirmed malaria cases, 32% of outpatient consultations, and 53% of hospitalizations in 2022.Tragically, hospital mortality rates for this age group reached 65% last year, underscoring the urgent need for preventative measures like vaccination. This initiative marks Togo as the 22nd country in Africa to integrate the R21/Matrix-M vaccine into its routine immunization program.
The Togolese government has demonstrated a strong commitment to malaria control, allocating $271.7 million to its National Malaria Control Plan. The introduction of this vaccine builds upon existing interventions, such as insecticide-treated nets and prompt diagnostic testing and treatment, to further reduce the burden of the disease and save lives. The campaign will be closely monitored to assess its impact and inform future malaria prevention strategies.
adapted in English by Mouka Mezonlin
