From the field

World Malaria Day 2010

Working to develop a malaria vaccine

By Dr. John Lusingu, Principal Investigator, Joint Malaria Programme
April 2010

KOROGWE, Tanzania – This World Malaria Day, I am reporting from Korogwe, Tanzania where I am working with families who are participating in a Phase 3 trial for a malaria vaccine candidate.

This trial – currently underway at 11 sites in seven African countries – could bring us closer than ever to having the world’s first malaria vaccine. Phase 3 is one of the final stages before regulatory approval and eventual availability.

Here at the Korogwe, a team of researchers and clinicians have been collaborating closely with community leaders, families and local and national governments for nearly a year to conduct this trial to the highest standards.

Our team is part of the Clinical Trials Partnership Committee – a network of world-class African researchers – that are leading this trial on the ground in Burkina Faso, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania.

Malaria has a devastating impact on African communities. A vaccine against malaria has been a long held goal and could save thousands of lives every year.  It would complement existing tools such as bed nets, spraying and treatments.

This morning, as I spoke to the families who are partners in our work, I couldn't help but think how lucky I am to witness history in the making. I hope to keep all of you updated as we move forward to make a malaria vaccine into a reality.

Dr. John Lusingu is a Principal Investigator with the Joint Malaria Programme, a collaboration between National Institute for Medical Research of Tanzania, the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the University of Copenhagen.