The first malaria vaccine is now being implemented in Africa to around 360,000 children under the age of two years old. The vaccine will be given in four doses between the ages of five months two years old. According to the World Health Organization, the vaccine offers partial protection with clinical trials showing prevention in four in ten malaria cases.

Malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted through female mosquitoes, while it is preventable many die from the disease each year. The vaccine, RTS,S, also referred to as Mosquirix, has been around since 1987. Over the years the percentage in the reduction of malaria deaths has increased. However, due to mosquitoes becoming resistant to drugs and insecticides after 10-20 years, the disease may make a comeback. This may not make the vaccine as effective, but it can’t be known for sure until the 2020s.