WHO Prequalifies New Malaria Vaccine "R21/Matrix-M" for Global Use.

Science & Technology | Dated: 23 Dec 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) has added the "R21/Matrix-M" malaria vaccine to its list of prequalified vaccines. This is the second malaria vaccine to receive WHO prequalification after RTS,S/AS01. Developed by Oxford University and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII), it is expected to be cheaper and more readily available.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • Prequalification ensures the vaccine meets international standards for quality, safety, and efficacy.
  • The vaccine aims to protect children in malaria-endemic regions, particularly in Africa.
  • Serum Institute of India has committed to producing 100 million doses annually.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • Vaccine: R21/Matrix-M.
  • Manufacturer: Serum Institute of India.
  • Disease: Malaria.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which organization manufactures the "R21/Matrix-M" malaria vaccine recently prequalified by WHO?

Correct Answer: Serum Institute of India

🚀 Quick Recap:

About WHO

  • DG – Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
  • HQ – Geneva, Switzerland