A significant breakthrough in the search for a suitable malaria treatment for newborns and babies has recorded with the drug known as Coartem Baby or Riamet Baby, developed by Novartis in collaboration with the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), a Swiss-based not-for-profit organisation.
MMV was initially backed by the British, Swiss and Dutch Governments, as well as the World Bank and the Rockefeller Foundation. The group announced on Monday that the first malaria treatment suitable for babies and very young children has been approved for use.
The company’s chief executive, Vas Narasimhan, says this is an important moment.
“For more than three decades, we have stayed the course in the fight against malaria, working relentlessly to deliver scientific breakthroughs where they are needed most.
“Together with our partners, we are proud to have gone further to develop the first clinically proven malaria treatment for newborns and young babies, ensuring even the smallest and most vulnerable can finally receive the care they deserve.”
Although the company has yet to fix a definite roll out date for the drug, it said is likely to be rolled out in regions and countries with the highest rates of malaria within weeks.
“It’s expected to be rolled out in African countries within weeks”, Novartis reportedly stated.
Eight African nations also took part in the assessment and trials of the drug and they are expected to be among the first to access it.
CEO of MMV, Martin Fitchet, says this is another important step on the road towards ending the huge toll taken by malaria.
“Malaria is one of the world’s deadliest diseases, particularly among children. But with the right resources and focus, it can be eliminated.
“The approval of Coartem Baby provides a necessary medicine with an optimised dose to treat an otherwise neglected group of patients and offers a valuable addition to the antimalarial toolbox.”
Associate professor at the University of Hertfordshire’s School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Dr Marvelle Brown, says this should be seen as a major breakthrough in saving the lives of babies and young children.
“The death rate for malarial infections, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa is extremely high – over 76% of deaths occur in children under five years old.
“Increase in death from malaria is further compounded in babies born with sickle cell disease, primarily due to a weak immune system.
“From a public health perspective, Novartis making this not-for-profit can help with reducing inequality in access to healthcare.” (BBC)
