There is encouraging news about progress with a potential malaria vaccine, PfSEA-1.
A study in Tanzania took regular blood samples from a group of 1,000 children living in a highly malarious area, in the first years of their lives. 6% of these children developed a naturally acquired immunity to malaria. They produce an antibody that attacks the malaria-causing parasite.
What is particularly interesting about this candidate vaccine is the source of the compound being investigated: antibodies found in humans. This is different from many candidate vaccines which do not have a ‘starting point’ in humans. This may be an indication of a higher probability of a positive outcome at the human trials stage where proof is required of both the efficacy and safety of the vaccine.
The research team said they were encouraged by the results but stress more research is required. Trials are now needed in primates and humans to fully assess the vaccine's promise.
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The 6-months post-distribution net use check-up (PDCU) is currently being conducted in Balaka District, Malawi. Five percent of households, randomly selected, across 14 health centre catchment areas in the district were visited, unannounced, to assess net use and condition.
The data are being entered in Malawi now and may be viewed in real-time. As soon as all data have been entered we will publish a summary of the results.
The specific nature of the data - at the health centre level - means the District Health Officer (DHO), health centre leaders, community leaders and other health workers are able to decide what targeted malaria control intervention might be appropriate in specific areas. In circumstances where health systems and resources are stretched, information that assists with targeted interventions can help with effective use of resources and that is the aim of this information.
Background: Almost 160,000 LLINs were distributed in Balaka District in October and November 2013.
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