Scientists in South Africa discover a compound that could eradicate malaria

Scientists in Capetown University in South Africa say that they have discovered a new anti- malaria compound with potential for both treatment and prevention of malaria.

The compound named UCT 943 is the second one developed by the experts after another compound discovery in 2012. They say the newer molecule is more potent against the malaria parasite.

“We are looking at a potential drug that can offer protection, cure infections and block transmission,said Kelly Chibale,the Founder and Director, H3D in University of Capetown.

Though the World Health Organisation says that the number of malaria cases and deaths in Africa have significantly decreased by 42% and 66% respectively between 2000 and 2015, 90 percent of malaria deaths occured in Africa in 2015.

Currently, there are more than 30 malaria vaccines under development. In 2015, Mosquirix became the first to gain regulatory approval from the European Medicines Agency, but studies say its efficacy is limited.

It is hoped that the molecule which will undergo pre-clinical trials for about 18 months will be the answer to malaria eradication in the African continent.

Reuters