Words by Abi Scaife
A new way to fight malaria has been discovered - completely by accident.
What’s the story?
A strain of naturally occurring bacteria been discovered - completely by chance. This bacteria could help to prevent the transmission of malaria from mosquitos to humans.
The bacteria is called TC1 - and scientists came across it when a colony of mosquitoes failed to develop the malaria parasite. They realised that the TC1 had helped to prevent malaria from developing in the mosquito’s gut by around 73%.
What does this mean?
Scientists at Johns Hopkins University, as well as the GSK scientists that made the initial discovery, are working to develop a way of transmitting the TC1 bacteria to mosquitos early enough to inhibit malaria.
This is an incredibly promising new development and one that means that we could see malaria cured within our lifetimes.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Against Malaria Foundation. This charity helps to protect people from malaria, and funds mosquito nets across the world. Learn more here.
Malaria No More. Malaria No More UK is part of a global effort to put an end to the suffering and death caused by malaria. Support them here.
United to Beat Malaria. This is the United Nations Foundation's United to Beat Malaria campaign - the world's largest grassroots campaign working together to save lives and end malaria. Find out more.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Good Health and Wellbeing.
