Indian Scientists Develop Indigenous Malaria Vaccine 'AdFalciVax'

Indian scientists have successfully developed the country's first indigenous malaria vaccine, potentially eliminating malaria in India before dengue. The vaccine, named AdFalciVax, is highly effective against the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and also prevents transmission within communities.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), based in New Delhi, has begun the process of partnering with private companies to ensure early production and distribution of the vaccine. The breakthrough comes from a collaboration between ICMR and the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) in Bhubaneswar.

According to ICMR Director General Dr. Rajiv Bahl, current malaria vaccines cost up to ₹800 per dose and provide only 33% to 67% protection. In contrast, India’s new vaccine shows dual action—preventing early-stage infection (before the parasite enters the bloodstream) and blocking transmission.

Globally, RTS,S and R21/Matrix-M vaccines approved by Oxford University and the WHO are in use in some countries. However, India's AdFalciVax could prove to be a more affordable and comprehensive solution.