Daily Current Affairs : 18-July-2024
In a vast public health milestone, Ivory Coast has become the first country to roll out the most up-to-date malaria vaccine, R21/Matrix-M. This vaccine is designed to defend children under the age of two, with an initial goal of vaccinating around 250,000 kids. Developed by Oxford University and authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the vaccine promises to be a major tool in the fight against malaria, one of the deadliest diseases in Africa.
What is the R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine?
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is a new, groundbreaking approach to fight malaria, a disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. This vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in preventing severe cases of malaria. Key points about the vaccine include:
- Effectiveness: The vaccine is over 75% effective in preventing severe disease and death within the first year.
- Booster Doses: The vaccine offers extended protection through a booster shot.
- Development: It was developed by researchers at Oxford University, making it one of the most advanced malaria vaccines available today.
The introduction of this vaccine represents a significant breakthrough in malaria control efforts, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where malaria is a major health threat.
Ivory Coast’s Role in the Fight Against Malaria
Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, is the first country to roll out this promising vaccine. The country is located on the southern coast of West Africa and has long struggled with the burden of malaria.
- Geography: It is bordered by Guinea and Liberia to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
- Capital Cities: Yamoussoukro is the political capital, while Abidjan is the economic capital and the largest city.
With this new vaccine, Ivory Coast is taking a leading role in malaria prevention, offering hope for many families and potentially saving thousands of lives.
Important Points:
Ivory Coast’s Leadership: Ivory Coast is the first country to roll out the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, targeting children under the age of two.
Vaccine Details:
- Developed by Oxford University and authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
- R21/Matrix-M is a three-dose vaccine with a booster shot for extended protection.
- Over 75% effectiveness in preventing severe disease and death within the first year.
Malaria in Africa: Malaria remains one of the deadliest diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, making new vaccines crucial in reducing health risks.
Ivory Coast’s Geography:
- Located in West Africa, bordered by Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana, and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Yamoussoukro is the political capital, while Abidjan is the economic capital and largest city.
Malaria Control Efforts: The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is a major tool in the fight against malaria, helping reduce the disease burden in Ivory Coast and the wider African continent.
Global Health Impact: The vaccine offers hope for widespread use, potentially saving thousands of lives and significantly reducing malaria-related deaths across Africa.
Ivory Coast’s Commitment: The country is taking a leading role in malaria prevention and health improvement initiatives.
Why In News
Ivory Coast became the first country to roll out the newest malaria vaccine, R21/Matrix-M, targeting about 250,000 children under the age of two, marking a historic step in the global fight against malaria and offering new hope for public health in the region.
MCQs about Ivory Coast Launches New Malaria Vaccine for Children
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Which country is the first to roll out the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine?
A. Ghana
B. Nigeria
C. Ivory Coast
D. Kenya
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What is the effectiveness of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine in preventing severe disease and death within the first year?
A. 50%
B. 75%
C. 90%
D. 95%
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Where was the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine developed?
A. Harvard University
B. Oxford University
C. University of Nairobi
D. University of Cape Town
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What is the capital of Ivory Coast’s economic center?
A. Bouaké
B. Yamoussoukro
C. Abidjan
D. San Pedro
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