The first malaria treatment for infants and very young children is approved for use.
It is expected to roll out in African countries within weeks.
There have been no approved malaria drugs especially for infants.
Instead, they have been treated with versions designed for older children which presents the risk of overdose.
In 2023 – the year for which the most recent figures are available – Malaria was linked to about 597,000 deaths.
Almost all deaths were in Africa, and about three of them had children under five years of age.
Malaria treatments for children are present, but till now, there was no one especially for infants and young children, which weighed 4.5 kg or about 10LB.
Instead they have been treated with medicines designed for older children.
But it presents the risk, as dosage for these older children may not be safe for infants, whose liver functions are still developing and whose bodies process drugs differently.
Experts say that it has described as “treatment intervals”.
Now a new drug developed by drug company Novartis is approved by Swiss authorities and is likely to roll out in areas with highest rates of malaria within a week.
Novartis plans to introduce it on a large scale profit basis.
The company’s chief executive, Vas Narasimhan, says this is an important moment.
“For more than three decades, we have been in the syllabus in the fight against malaria, working continuously to distribute scientific successes where they need the most.
“With our colleagues, we are proud that the first clinically proven malaria treatment for newborns and young children has moved forward, even the smallest and weakest people to ensure that they can eventually get care that they deserve.”
In some countries, the drug, known as COrtem Baby or Riyamate Baby, was developed by Novartis in collaboration with drugs for the malaria venture (MMV), which is initially supported by British, Swiss and Dutch governments, as well as the World Bank and Rackfallor Foundation.
Eight African countries also participated in drug evaluation and tests and they are expected to be one of the first people to access it.
MMV CEO Martin Fitchhet says that this is another important step on the road towards eliminating the huge toll taken by malaria.
“Malaria is one of the most deadly diseases in the world, especially among children. But with the right resources and attention, it can be eliminated.
“Coortem Baby’s approval provides an essential drug with a customized dose to treat patients otherwise the neglected group and provides a valuable additional for antimerial toolbox.”
Associate Professor of University of Heartfordsire School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Dr. Marvel Brown says that it should be seen as a great success in saving the lives of infants and young children.
“Death rate for malaria infection, especially in sub -colon Africa, is very high – children under five years of age have more than 76% of deaths.
“Increase in death from malaria is more complex in infants born with sickle cell disease, mainly due to a weakened immune system.
“From a public health perspective, Novartis did not make this profitable gain, can help reduce inequality in access to healthcare.”
