Ifakara Masterclass Edition 38 – The Next Malaria Vaccine: A MasterClass with Prof. Adrian Hill

The Next Malaria Vaccine

The 38th edition of the masterclass hosted by Fredros Okumu from Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) and Sheila Ogoma from Clinton Health Access Initiative(CHAI) features Prof. Adrian Hill.

Malaria vaccine research has come a long way after its initiation 111 years ago back in 1910 with leading vaccine candidates like RTS, S strugging to breakthrough. Considering the 640,000 deaths from Malaria mainly in children mostly in Africa coupled with 240 million clinical episodes the need for a breakthrough is of high necessity.

The potential vaccines undergoing research and development target the four specific stages. The sporozoite stage i.e. R21 by far the most advanced in research and development, Liver stage- Lacking efficacy, Mosquito stage- Transmission blocking vaccines, showing exciting advancments(Pfs25, Pfs230) and Blood stage- Showing good potential (PfRH5).

Highlights from R21/Matrix-M vaccine

1)24 months efficacy data in phase IIb- 77%

2)Phase III trial fully enrolled                               

-Interim analysis in Q3 2022                         

-Primary endpoint in Q3/4 2022

3)Large scale manufacture in Serum institute of india well advanced                                         

-200 to 300 million doses per annum to be supplied

4)Regulatory strategy under development         

-Targeting a WHO application for a policy recommendation and prequalification from end September 2022