Q1: What is the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine?
A1: The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine is a vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India. It utilizes Novavax's adjuvant technology to enhance its effectiveness.
Q2: Has the World Health Organization (WHO) approved this malaria vaccine?
A2: Yes, the WHO has recommended the use of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine after it met the necessary safety, quality, and effectiveness standards.
Q3: What was the process for WHO approval?
A3: The vaccine underwent a detailed scientific review by the WHO's independent advisory body, the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE), and the Malaria Policy Advisory Group (MPAG) before receiving the recommendation for use.
Q4: When will the vaccine be available for wider roll-out?
A4: With the WHO's approval and recommendations, additional regulatory approvals are expected to follow soon. Vaccine doses could be ready for a broader roll-out as early as next year.
Q5: What is the production capacity of the Serum Institute for this vaccine?
A5: The Serum Institute has established production capacity for 100 million doses per year, and this capacity will be doubled over the next two years. This scale of production is crucial for malaria prevention efforts.
Q6: What is the role of Novavax in this vaccine?
A6: Novavax's proprietary saponin-based adjuvant technology, known as Matrix-M, is used in this vaccine. Novavax has licensed this technology to the Serum Institute for use in endemic countries, while retaining commercial rights in non-endemic countries.
Q7: Who supported the development of this malaria vaccine?
A7: The vaccine was developed by the Jenner Institute at Oxford University and the Serum Institute of India, with support from organizations such as the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), the Wellcome Trust, and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
