A "Shot" for Sierra Leone: Something to Celebrate for World Immunization Week & World Malaria Day

This International Immunization Week and today's World Malaria Day carries a special weight for Sierra Leone. As the world celebrates the power of vaccines to save lives, Sierra Leone takes a momentous step forward with the rollout of the malaria vaccine. This groundbreaking development holds immense promise for a country where malaria remains the number one killer of children.

Sierra Leone currently faces the highest infant mortality rate in the world, with many of these deaths attributable to malaria. Vaccines, however, offer a relatively simple and life-saving intervention. A 2020 study conducted by the research lab at Mercy Hospital in the Bo community* investigated the acceptability of the malaria vaccine among residents. This research plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the vaccine rollout.

​Mercy Hospital isn't just a center for groundbreaking research; it's also a trusted name in healthcare delivery. The hospital serves as a site for the World Health Organization's Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). Every week, an EPI representative visits Mercy Hospital to vaccinate children under the age of five brought in by their mothers. This program, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, has saved countless lives by providing vital immunizations to children around the globe.

If you have ever had the chance to visit Mercy Hospital on immunization day, it is quite a sight! The WHO representative appears at the hospital with a small cooler where all of his vaccines are stored. The mother's line up with their children in tow and he begins giving them vaccines. Depending on the schedule for the child, they may get four or five shots at once, and he does them in rapid fire. The babies are so surprised that they don't even begin to cry until after the last syringed vaccine is given. Then, when their mouths are open from crying, he gives them the oral polio vaccine which seems to surprise them so much that they stop crying. Although the babies don't like it, it's such a powerful sight to see, because in just a few minutes 30 or more kids become one step closer to reaching their 5th birthday.

The trust and reputation Mercy Hospital has built within the community is crucial for the success of the new malaria vaccine. Mothers know their children will receive safe and effective care at the hospital, making them more likely to bring their children in for vaccination.​

​This International Immunization Week and World Malaria Day, as Sierra Leone begins its malaria vaccine rollout, we celebrate not just a medical breakthrough, but the combined power of research, trusted healthcare institutions, and the dedication of the EPI program. This is a shot of hope for Sierra Leone, a chance to protect its most vulnerable population and build a healthier future.