WHO prequalifies first-ever malaria treatment for newborns

Ahead of World Malaria Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the prequalification of the first malaria treatment specifically designed for newborns and young infants weighing between 2 and 5 kg. 

The newly approved drug, artemether-lumefantrine, is the first formulation tailored for the youngest malaria patients. It is designed to reduce dosing errors, side effects, and toxicity.  Previously, infants were treated with drugs meant for older children, increasing health risks. 

Global Impact

• WHO prequalification enables large-scale public procurement
• Expected to benefit nearly 30 million babies born annually in malaria-endemic regions, especially in Africa
• Strengthens efforts to reduce infant mortality due to malaria.

Rising Global Malaria Burden

According to the World Malaria Report 2025, 282 million cases and 610,000 deaths were recorded in 2024. This marks an increase from 2023, indicating slowing global progress. While 47 countries are malaria-free, 37 countries reported fewer than 1,000 cases. Global gains are under threat. 

Key Challenges: Progress in malaria control is being hindered by:

• Drug resistance
• Insecticide resistance
• Diagnostic failures
• Declining international funding

About Malaria

Malaria is a life-threatening but preventable and curable disease:

• Transmitted through bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes
• Also spread via blood transfusion and contaminated needles
• Caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium
• Does not spread person-to-person

Malaria-Causing Parasites: Five species infect humans:

• Plasmodium falciparum – deadliest and most prevalent in Africa
• Plasmodium vivax – dominant outside sub-Saharan Africa
• Other species: P. malariae, P. ovale, P. knowlesi.

Source: WHO