Global malaria trends and vaccine accessibility

A study published in Nature Medicine by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation indicates a significant rise in malaria cases among children under five. Between 2019 and 2023, cases in this demographic increased from 11.1 million to 15.6 million, reversing a long-term decline. Estimated deaths also rose from approximately 105,000 to 118,000 during this period.

Researchers attributed this trend in part to declining vaccination coverage, noting that global first-dose coverage fell to 81% in 2023.

In response to demand, UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, have negotiated a 40% price reduction for the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine. Supported by the International Finance Facility for Immunisation, the agreement aims to lower the cost to EUR 5.50 per dose by early 2027. This reduction is contingent upon regulatory and manufacturing milestones, including the WHO prequalification of a new facility intended to increase supply capacity. The cost savings are expected to save approximately $50 million between 2027 and 2029, potentially protecting up to one million additional children.