WASHINGTON - An experimental malaria vaccine is the most promising yet, protecting up to 65 per cent of infants from infection in two studies in Africa, researchers reported on Monday.
Separate tests in Kenya and Tanzania showed GlaxoSmithKlines vaccine, called RTS,S could protect babies and toddlers from infection with malaria and could prevent disease even in those already infected.
While the vaccine is far from perfect, it is the best yet against the mosquito-borne parasite, the researchers agreed. They said they would begin phase III clinical tests, the last stage before seeking regulatory approval, next year.
"Even a partially effective vaccine has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of lives each year," said Christian Loucq, director of the nonprofit Path Malaria Vaccine Initiative, which helped to conduct the study.