WHO backs malaria vaccine rollout for Africa's children in major breakthrough

13 Sept 13:41 Key points summarised by AI

The World Health Organization (WHO) formally recommended the widespread use of RTS,S (Mosquirix), the only approved malaria vaccine, for children across Africa.
This decision represents a significant advance against malaria, a disease that kills hundreds of thousands annually in Africa, primarily children under five, with the potential to save tens of thousands of young lives each year.
Developed by British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Mosquirix has already been administered to 2.3 million infants in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi through a pilot program since 2019.
Despite its approximately 30% effectiveness against severe malaria, it is the only approved vaccine, and the immediate challenge now shifts to mobilizing financing for its large-scale production and distribution to the continent's poorest countries.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.