Nayala: Local actors in Nayala are making significant strides in the fight against malaria by supporting the introduction of a new vaccine. The Toma Public Reading and Cultural Activities Center (CELPAC) hosted an advocacy workshop on Thursday to promote the malaria vaccine within the health district. The workshop, led by the Secretary General of Nayala Province, who represented the High Commissioner, gathered local authorities, health workers, and community leaders to rally support for this crucial health initiative.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Secretary General of the province, Adama Diallo, highlighted the ongoing efforts by health workers to maintain public services despite challenging security conditions. Diallo underlined the gravity of the situation, noting that in 2024, Burkina Faso recorded over 10.8 million malaria cases in health facilities, resulting in 3,523 deaths. The impact is particularly severe on children under five, who account for nearly 30% of cases and over 60% of deaths.
In response to this pressing issue, the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene has pledged to bolster its strategies. Starting in February 2024, the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine has been incorporated into the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) across 27 priority districts in seven regions. The World Health Organization (WHO) also endorses the R21/Matrix-M vaccine, signifying a pivotal advancement in combating malaria.
During the workshop, Samate Tiere, head of vaccination prevention, detailed malaria as a serious infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, transmitted through bites from infested female Anopheles mosquitoes. Tiere emphasized that while malaria is treatable, it can be fatal within 24 hours if not addressed. The most at-risk groups include children under five and pregnant women.
Mr. Samate Tiere stressed that the vaccine’s successful rollout hinges on the commitment of authorities, associations, media, and health workers. He advocated for dispelling vaccine-related fears and rumors through clear communication in religious and community settings. Since the vaccine launch on August 24, nearly 602 children in the district have received the vaccine.
Dr. Sanfo Sadou, head of monitoring and evaluation, provided insights into the epidemiological challenges in the Toma health district, which operates 37 health facilities amid security and logistical constraints. District chief physician, Dr. Sissao Arouna, called on Nayala’s women to visit health facilities regularly to safeguard their children’s health.
The District Health Management Team (DHM) views the vaccine’s introduction as a pivotal moment, enhancing existing prevention measures in a region where malaria is the leading cause of child consultations and fatalities. The vaccination schedule requires four doses for children aged 5 to 23 months, delivered at 5, 6, 7, and 15 months.
The launch of the malaria vaccine in Nayala represents a critical step forward in combating a disease that continues to devastate communities. Participants of the workshop vowed to advocate for the vaccine within their communities, ensuring all affected children receive this essential protection.