A large trial in Africa showed the efficiency of a new rotavirus vaccine. Rotavirus is a diarrheal disease that is to blame for 600 deaths a day. This is the main cause of death in kids under 5 years old, in underdeveloped countries. The new vaccine is made by an Indian company.
In order to test this rotavirus vaccine, the company carried out a trial in Niger with the help of Doctors Without Borders. This vaccine is supposed to be even cheaper than the vaccines that are available on the market now. The best thing about this treatment is that it can last many moths without refrigeration.
Before it can be distributed, it must be approved by the World Health Organization. Despite the fact that the process is a long one, experts stated that this vaccine is a leap forward. Although it is not perfect, the vaccine is a great thing for children in Africa.
Every year, more than 215,000 kids under 5 die due to the rotavirus. The most affected countries are Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Niger. The problem about this virus is that it can’t be treated with antiparasitic drugs or antibiotics. This new vaccine could be the only chance for these children to prevent the disease.
After it was tested, the experts observed that it was 67% effective in preventing rotavirus-related diarrhea. The vaccine is made by the Serum Institute of India. Another great thing about this rotavirus vaccine is that it doesn’t cause intussusception. This is a rare but lethal bowel obstruction. The first American vaccine for this disease was recalled from the market due to the fact that it could trigger intussusception.
3,500 participants were involved in the trial. All of the kids were from 132 villages. They were supervised by more than 300 medical personnel. Although this trial showed that the vaccine was only 67% effective, it is better than other vaccines that were previously tested.
The leader of the study, Rebecca F. Grais, mentioned that her team is very excited about the results. She said that this rotavirus vaccine could save a lot of lives. The new vaccine can have a big impact on public health. Let’s hope that the new rotavirus vaccine is approved by the WHO.
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