Barriers of persistent long-lasting insecticidal nets utilization in Northwest Ethiopia: a qualitative study
Malaria continues a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia, with Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) proving effective in reducing transmission. Despite their effectiveness, consistent LLIN utilization is influenced by various factors. While previous research has quantitatively analyzed LLIN ownership and usage, there is a lack of in-depth examination of the behavioral, sociocultural, socioeconomic, and distribution-related factors […]
Building capacity for testing sterile insect technique against Aedes-borne diseases in the Pacific: a training workshop and launch of sterile insect technique trials against Aedes aegypti and arboviral diseases
Vector-borne diseases cause morbidity and mortality globally. However, some areas are more impacted than others, especially with climate change. Controlling vectors remains the primary means to prevent these diseases, but new, more effective tools are needed. The World Health Organization (WHO) prioritized evaluating novel control methods, such as sterile insect technique (SIT) for control of Aedes-borne […]
Towards next-generation treatment options to combat Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Malaria, which is caused by infection of red blood cells with Plasmodium parasites, can be fatal in non-immune individuals if left untreated. The recent approval of the pre-erythrocytic vaccines RTS, S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M has ushered in hope of substantial reductions in mortality rates, especially when combined with other existing interventions. However, the efficacy of these […]
Communicating the uncertainties associated with genetic biocontrol approaches: insights from communicators, science journalists and scientists in Africa
Genetic biocontrol approaches, such as gene drive technology is rapidly gaining interest from scientists and public health professionals due to their potential to overcome many challenges of current malaria control tools and strategies. This is particularly the case in Africa where the burden of malaria is most significant. Uncertainty exists about whether these approaches will […]
Current status of the sterile insect technique for the suppression of mosquito populations on a global scale
In recent years, genetic control technologies have gained traction globally as viable alternatives to chemical insecticides, acknowledging their detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health. Notably, the sterile insect technique (SIT) has experienced renewed interest as a method for controlling Aedes mosquitoes, particularly following the Zika virus outbreaks in the Americas and the rising incidence of dengue […]
The effects of climatic and non-climatic factors on malaria mortality at different spatial scales in western Kenya, 2008–2019
Despite notable strides made in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality since the year 2000, the disease still remains one of the leading causes of mortality, especially among children aged<5 years. The WHO estimated that globally malaria caused 608 000 deaths in 2022 and 96% (approximately 583 680) of the deaths occurred in the African region. Similar […]