Summary
Researchers conducted a study in Uganda to see if treating baby wraps with insecticide could protect infants from malaria. They found that babies who used the treated wraps had a much lower risk of getting malaria compared to those with untreated wraps. The study showed a significant reduction in malaria cases among infants using insecticide-treated wraps, offering a potential new method to fight the disease.
Key Facts
- Babies were tested to see if insecticide-treated wraps could protect them from malaria.
- The study took place in a rural area of western Uganda.
- 200 mothers received wraps treated with permethrin, while 200 others got regular wraps.
- The use of treated wraps resulted in a 65% reduction in malaria cases among infants.
- Researchers observed only mild side effects, with some babies getting a rash.
- The treatment could potentially provide extra protection before babies start walking.
- The idea is inspired by the military's use of insecticide-treated clothing.
- The demand for the treated wraps is expected to be high among mothers.
