An important step in fighting it malaria was done with the approval of her first treatment specially designed for infants and very young childrenas the pharmaceutical company announced Novartis. The new medication is expected to be made available to her countries Africa within the following weeks.

As stated in Bbcto date there was no approved preparation exclusively for newborns. Infants were taking medicines designed for older children, which poses the risk of overdose, as baby livers and organisms have not yet been fully developed and metabolize the medicinal substances differently.

Nearly 597,000 deaths in 2023 – 75% under 5 years of age

The 2023the world account of death by malaria has reached almost their 597,000with almost all of them being recorded in Africa. Of them, about the 75% It was for children under 5, while infants under 4.5 kg had no healing choice specifically tailored to their needs.

The new treatment, known as Coartem Baby or Riamet babydeveloped by Novartis in collaboration with Swiss Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV). This organization is backed by governments such as Britain, Switzerland and the Netherlands, as well as by the International Bank and the Rockefeller Foundation.

Eight African countries participated in the tests and evaluations of the drug and are expected to be one of the first to receive it.

‘Milestone for the care of the most vulnerable’

The CEO of Novartis, Vas narasimhandescribed the approval of treatment as a “important milestone” in the fight against malaria:

“For more than three decades we have been working on scientific discoveries where there is more need. We are proud to have been able to develop the first clinically approved treatment for newborns and infants, ensuring that even the younger and vulnerable children will receive the care they deserve. “.

Novartis has announced that it intends to dispose of the drug with a non -profit pricing policy in order to ensure widespread access.

MMV’s chief executive, Martin Fitchetnoted that this is a crucial step towards eliminating the disease:

“Malaria is one of the most deadly diseases in the world, especially for children. With appropriate resources and proper approach, it can be eliminated. Coartem Baby offers treatment for a neglected group of patients so far“

Important for children with sickle cell anemia

Dr. Marvelle BrownAssociate Professor at Hertfordshire University, described the new treatment as an important breakthrough for public health:

“Mortality from malaria, especially in sub -Saharan Africa, is extremely high – over 76% of deaths are children under five. The condition deteriorates for infants suffering from sickle cell anemia due to their weak immune system. Drug distribution on a non -profit basis can reduce inequalities in access to health care“