Togo began administering the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine through its national immunization program on September 1, 2025. This makes Togo the 22nd African country to introduce the vaccine, following neighbors like Ghana, Benin, and Nigeria.
Malaria remains a serious issue in Togo, causing 40% of outpatient visits and 25% of hospital admissions, especially among children under five. In 2022, children in this age group made up 64% of malaria cases and 65% of related hospital deaths. The vaccine schedule includes four doses between 5 and 15 months of age.
Health officials aim to vaccinate 269,000 children per year across all 39 health districts. The campaign is supported by WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Togolese government. Authorities hope to reduce child malaria deaths by 65% by 2030, though success will depend on public support, tackling misinformation, and securing long-term funding.
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