Malaria’s impact goes beyond initial illness and recovery, says Africa scientists research
The gene drive technology remains under development and is currently being studied in contained laboratory settings to address Malaria prevention.
By Edrisa Ssentongo
The research on Malaria done by African scientists has proved through evidence has proved that consequences extend beyond initial illness and recovery.
According to the latest world health organization figures estimate that Africa accounted for 94% of malaria cases and 95% of deaths globally in 2024 with children under five years accounting for three quarters of Malaria deaths in the region yet mortality is not only the measure of Malaria’s impact.
According to Dr. Paul Baingana of Makerere University, the neuropsychological consequences of child hood Malaria for than two decades research found impaired cognition celebrial malaria twenty four months after illness.
“Survival of malaria is paramount, however the secondary effect of a severe episode can be debilitating, said Paul Baingana.
” My child missed school for a week because of illness, even after returning, he was still week and sometimes had difficulty concentrating on his school work, said Sarah Nankya a resident of Kitosi village in Mukono district.
According to research done by Paul Baingana ‘s doctoral students on practical and emotional effects on families, the results showed behavioral changes and poor academic achievements alongside family disruption, disagreements about where to seek help, feelings of helplessness and difficulties in balancing work and family responsibilities.
” Repeated malaria brings alot of worry because as a parent you’re always afraid, your child may become seriously I’ll again, sometimes I must leave work or other responsibilities to care for my child. added Sarah Nankya.
The research on Malaria was done by the Target Malaria consortium, a non profit research entity and is among the Africa led research progrmmes investigating whether genetic technologies could one day complement existing inertervations.
The research is exploring gene drive technology designed to reduce populations of specific malaria transmitting mosquitoes with research progressing through phased scientific assessment, regulatory oversight and community engagement.
The gene drive technology remains under development and is currently being studied in contained laboratory settings to address Malaria prevention.
Target Malaria is funded by the Billgates foundation and coefficient giving and the lead grantee organization is imperial college of London with partners in Africa, Europe and North America.
