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Cameroon Launches Historic Malaria Vaccine
The world’s first routine vaccine program against malaria has begun in Cameroon Monday, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the mosquito-borne disease that claims hundreds of thousands of lives each year. The symbolic first jab was given to a baby girl named Daniella at a health facility near Yaoundé.
Every year, 600,000 people in Africa die of malaria, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Children under five make up at least 80% of those deaths. Cameroon is offering the RTS,S vaccine free of charge to all infants up to the age of six months old. Patients require a total of four doses, which will be given at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines to make it easier for parents.
The RTS,S vaccine has shown promising results in pilot campaigns, with a 13% drop in malaria deaths in children of eligible age in Malawi and Kenya, where it was piloted. However, with an efficacy rate of around 36%, it is not a definitive solution. Experts caution that it should be used alongside other preventative measures like mosquito nets and malaria tablets.
Fears and doubts among some Cameroonians about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine have raised concerns about vaccine hesitancy. Health officials and scientists are working to address these concerns and educate the public about the benefits of the vaccine.
The launch of the malaria vaccine program in Cameroon is a historic moment in the global fight against the disease. The WHO hailed it as a “landmark achievement” and expressed hope that it will save millions of lives.
While there is currently a limited supply of the RTS,S vaccine, other countries are expected to roll out the program this year. Additionally, the anticipated rollout of a second vaccine, R21, developed by Oxford University, could significantly increase the number of doses available.
Liberia New President’s Speech Abruptly Ends Due to Illness
Liberia’s inauguration ceremony descended into chaos today as newly sworn-in President Joseph Boakai, 79, appeared to suffer a health episode and was forced to leave the proceedings prematurely.
Mr. Boakai, the nation’s oldest president, had been speaking for approximately 30 minutes when his voice faltered and he began exhibiting signs of distress. His aides and members of the executive protection service rushed to his side, surrounding him and guiding him away from the podium.
The incident, which unfolded at the Capitol Building, the seat of the legislature, cast a shadow over the historic event, prompting concerns about Mr. Boakai’s health and its potential impact on his presidency.
Whispers about Mr. Boakai’s health had circulated throughout the campaign, fueled by his age and a previous pacemaker implant. However, he had dismissed these concerns, asserting his fitness for office.
The sudden interruption of the inauguration speech left the ceremony in disarray, with officials announcing an immediate adjournment. No further details about Mr. Boakai’s health were immediately released, leaving the nation in suspense and sparking speculation about his condition and the potential implications for the new administration.
Mr. Boakai, a former vice president under Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, served for 12 years before narrowly defeating incumbent president George Weah in the recent elections. His victory marked a significant generational shift in Liberian politics, with Boakai representing a return to experienced leadership after Weah’s youth-centric tenure.
However, questions about Mr. Boakai’s health were a constant presence throughout the campaign. While he dismissed them, highlighting his extensive experience and commitment to service, the incident today raises new concerns about his capacity to lead the country
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