Permethrin-Treated Baby Wraps Could Save Thousands of Children from Malaria
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that treating baby wraps with permethrin can significantly reduce malaria cases in children under five in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that permethrin-treated baby wraps reduced malaria cases by roughly 65% over six months in western Uganda.
Malaria is a devastating disease in sub-Saharan Africa, claiming the life of a child under five nearly every minute. Babies are particularly vulnerable during the day when they are not protected by bed nets. The study found that reapplying the permethrin treatment every four weeks was effective, but manufacturers could potentially create fabrics with longer-lasting effects.
The study also noted a slightly increased risk of skin rash, but no major side effects were observed. Experts agree that the reduction in malaria cases is surprisingly large and significant. Organizations like Vestergaard Frandsen and Sumitomo Chemical, known for producing permethrin-treated mosquito nets, could be involved in manufacturing these baby wraps. The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in the development and approval of such products.
The study highlights the potential of permethrin-treated baby wraps as an additional tool in the fight against malaria. With a child dying nearly every minute from the disease, any reduction in cases could have a significant impact. Further research and collaboration between organizations and manufacturers could help make these wraps more accessible and effective in saving lives.
