Burundi adds malaria vaccine to immunization program

Burundi has officially added a malaria vaccine to its routine immunization program, supported by Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, and Dalberg. The launch took place in Mpanda District, following the arrival of 544,000 vaccine doses in January. Malaria is a major health issue in Burundi, particularly affecting children under five. In 2023, nearly half of reported malaria cases were in this age group, highlighting the need for effective prevention measures. The vaccine aims to reduce malaria-related illness and death among children. It will complement existing strategies like insecticide-treated nets and seasonal malaria chemoprevention, enhancing the country's efforts to combat this disease.