Cameroon has become the first country to launch the much-anticipated malaria vaccine amidst public skepticism on its efficacy and safety. Despite the initial vaccine hesitancy from the public, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has termed the malaria vaccine mass rollout in Cameroon as ‘a significant step’ in the prevention of the disease. Baptist churches have come alongside to play an important role in helping to counter misinformation and build trust among grassroot communities.
Today, Cameroon makes history by launching the world’s first malaria vaccine as part of its immunisation programme – a major step in the battle against a disease that claims nearly 14,000 Cameroonian lives each year.