KEMRI study shows ivermectin significantly reduces malaria transmission

A study conducted by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), in conjunction with the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and the Manhiça Health Research Center (CISM), now shows that ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, significantly reduces malaria infections. 

KEMRI says that the findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed a 26 per cent reduction in malaria transmission when ivermectin was administered alongside standard control measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets. 

The trial was conducted in Kwale County, Kenya, and Mopeia District in Mozambique. 

“We are pleased to have participated in this landmark study, that compliments on malaria control and prevention strategies in endemic regions like Kenya," said Prof. Elijah Songok, Acting Director General of KEMRI.

"We are very excited that Ivermectin, which has been effective against several parasitic infections, now shows great potential in the fight against malaria and other neglected tropical diseases."

In Kwale, the trial involved over 20,000 participants who received a single dose of ivermectin over three consecutive months at the beginning of the rainy season. 

Upon assessing the safety profile of the drug, they established mild side effects and no serious drug-related effects. 

“The findings suggest that ivermectin MDA could be a valuable complementary strategy for malaria control, particularly in areas where mosquito resistance to insecticides is a growing concern,” noted Marta Maia, lead entomologist of the Broad One Health Endectocide-based Malaria Intervention in Africa (BOHEMIA) from the University of Oxford.

In Mozambique, the findings faced setbacks due to Cyclone Gombe and the subsequent cholera outbreak.

This, however, emphasised the importance of community engagement to promote quality healthcare. 

“One of the most important lessons we learned is that strong community engagement is essential. Trust and close coordination with the Ministry of Health and local leaders were key to community acceptance of the intervention," said Francisco Saúte, Director of CISM. 

As it stands, the WHO Vector Control Advisory Group has recommended further studies to be carried out on ivermectin after review.