2.2 Million Malaria Vaccines Distributed in Uganda

With about 90% of the world's malaria cases reported in Africa, one country is taking action to curtail the impact of this mosquito-transmitted disease.

On March 7, 2025, Uganda's Minister of Health, Hon. Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, approved the distribution of 2.278 million doses of malaria vaccines to 105 districts. This effort is a significant milestone in the country's fight against malaria.

Malaria remains the leading cause of illness and death of young children in Uganda. The malaria vaccine will be introduced into the routine immunisation schedule in April 2025, targeting children below two years old.

Speaking at the flag-off event, Dr Aceng emphasised in a press release the government's commitment to strengthening disease prevention efforts and building resilient health systems." Introducing the malaria vaccine in Uganda is a historic step forward in our fight against this deadly disease."

"With the support of Gavi, UNICEF and other partners, we are ensuring that every eligible child has access to this life-saving intervention," the Minister stated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends malaria vaccinations to prevent P. falciparum malaria in children living in malaria-endemic areas. As of March 10, 2025, the WHO and the African CDC recommend Mosquirix™ and R21 / Matrix-M™ vaccines for travelers visiting malaria-endemic countries.

Currently, malaria vaccines are not offered in the United States.