Few new chemicals are in development for malaria vector control

May 23 2012

"This issue has been building for some time. It is really no surprise as insects have become resistant to nearly all insecticides given time and selection pressure. Few new chemicals are in development for malaria vector control, because there is little profit to be made by the poorest of the world's poor — who feel the brunt of the malaria burden.

"There is a tremendous need to identify new ways of controlling malaria vectors that are practical, low cost, and sustainable or even looking at the existing technology with a new perspective toward using them in ways that prolong their efficacy. Unfortunately, this type of practical research is not viewed as 'sexy science' and it is nearly impossible to obtain funding by the large agencies to support it.

"Another critical need is to sincerely train and provide support for in-country, field-based scientists and technicians to manage resistance development. Many western scientists pay lip service to this notion, but few really devote effort and resources to make it happen. Training and enabling in-country scientists will lead to sustainability and independence for countries with high malaria burdens instead of helplessly relying on the ebb and flow of philanthropic dollars."

Source: Cornell University