Towards a malaria vaccine for Papua New Guinea.

Malaria is a major problem in Papua New Guinea, where it accounts for a high proportion of sickness and death. In addition to the human suffering, malaria also puts severe stress on the health services, and may directly hinder economic growth. A malaria vaccine would be the best, most cost-effective and safest public health measure to reduce the burden of malaria. Though considerable technical challenges are present, much natural and scientific evidence suggests a vaccine is achievable. Through the malaria vaccine program at the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Papua New Guinea is playing a significant role in the global effort to develop a malaria vaccine, and ensuring that the malaria patterns of the Asia-Pacific region figure strongly in vaccine development strategies. Discussed here are some of the major issues to be considered as we work towards a malaria vaccine for Papua New Guinea.