In a historic move to combat malaria, St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor has commenced the administration of the newly introduced malaria vaccine to children under two years of age. This initiative aligns with Uganda’s nationwide effort to integrate the malaria vaccine into routine immunization services, aiming to reduce the high incidence of malaria among young children.
National Malaria Vaccine Introduction
On March 7, 2025, the Ugandan Ministry of Health officially launched the distribution of 2.278 million doses of the malaria vaccine to 105 districts with high and moderate transmission rates. This rollout is part of a broader plan to eventually cover the entire country. The vaccine, a four-dose regimen administered at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months, has been incorporated into the routine immunization schedule starting April 2025.
An infant receiving Malaria vaccine
Malaria’s Impact in Uganda
Malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death among young children in Uganda. Before the vaccine’s introduction, at least 16 people died daily from malaria, with 10 of these being children under five years old. The introduction of the malaria vaccine is expected to significantly reduce severe illness and deaths among children under five.
St. Mary’s Lacor Hospital’s Role
Beginning April 10, 2025, the hospital started administering the malaria vaccine to eligible children, contributing to the national effort to curb malaria’s impact.
Complementary Malaria Prevention Measures
The malaria vaccine complements existing prevention strategies, including:
- Insecticide-treated mosquito nets
- Indoor residual spraying
- Seasonal malaria chemoprevention
- Effective case management
Together, these measures form a comprehensive approach to malaria control, enhancing protection for young children
