Summary
Scientists at Harvard University have discovered a potential new method to prevent mosquitoes from spreading malaria by treating them with drugs that kill the malaria parasites. This approach involves coating bed nets with these drugs so mosquitoes absorb them through their legs, effectively stopping malaria transmission.
Key Facts
- Researchers at Harvard University propose giving mosquitoes drugs to stop them from spreading malaria.
- Malaria is caused by parasites spread by female mosquitoes that drink blood.
- Current methods focus on killing mosquitoes with insecticide, but many mosquitoes are now resistant.
- The new method uses bed nets coated with drugs that mosquitoes absorb, killing the malaria parasites inside them.
- Two drugs were found to kill 100% of malaria parasites in lab settings.
- Bed nets treated with these drugs remain effective for a year, providing a cost-effective solution.
- The approach is being further tested in Ethiopia, with full results expected in about six years.
- The plan is to combine drug treatment with insecticides for a more effective defense against malaria.
