New Approach to Combat Malaria: Treating Mosquitoes

U.S. scientists suggest a novel method to fight malaria—treating mosquitoes with anti-malarial drugs to stop disease transmission. Malaria, which kills around 600,000 people annually, is spread by infected female mosquitoes during blood meals. Traditionally, control efforts have focused on killing mosquitoes with insecticides.

Researchers at Harvard found two drugs that, when absorbed through mosquito legs, completely eliminate the parasite. The goal is to coat bed nets with these drugs, offering long-lasting protection. Unlike insecticides, which are becoming less effective due to resistance, this new method targets the parasite directly.

Lab tests showed the drugs remain effective on net-like materials for a year. Field trials in Ethiopia are planned, and full implementation may take six years. The future vision includes dual-treatment nets combining drugs and insecticides for maximum impact.

28-05-2025