Novartis Wins Approval For First Malaria Treatment For Babie
BloombergJUL 9
First Malaria Treatment for Newborns Approved by Swiss Regulators
Above: U.S. Army medical researchers participate in World Malaria Day 2010 in Kisumu, Kenya. Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons
The Spin
Narrative A
This breakthrough is a crucial step forward in protecting the world's most vulnerable population from a highly preventable disease. The cherry-flavored, breast milk-dissolvable formulation finally gives healthcare workers an appropriate tool for treating newborns who were previously at risk of dangerous overdoses from adult medications.
Narrative B
While this development fills a significant gap, the focus should remain on prevention through existing tools, such as bed nets and vaccines, rather than expanding treatment options. The relatively modest burden of malaria in newborns compared to older children suggests resources might be better allocated to proven prevention strategies.