Mosquitoes becoming more resistant to malaria control

Washington,  - Given time and selection pressure, the insects have become resistant to almost all insecticides, according to a new study.

However, a few new chemicals are in development for malaria vector control, ‘as there is little profit to be made by the poorest of the world’s poor — who feel the brunt of the malaria burden’.

According to Laura C. Harrington, a mosquito expert and an associate professor of medical entomology at Cornell University, there is a need for an efficient way to control malaria.

“There is a huge need to identify new ways of controlling malaria vectors that are practical, low cost, and sustainable or even looking at the existing technology with a new perspective toward using them in ways that prolong their efficacy. But, unfortunately, this type of practical research is not viewed as ‘sexy science’ and it is nearly impossible to obtain funding by the large agencies to support it,” said Harrington

“Another critical need is to sincerely train and provide support for in-country, field-based scientists and technicians to manage resistance development. Many western scientists pay lip service to this notion, but few really devote effort and resources to make it happen. Training and enabling in-country scientists will lead to sustainability and independence for countries with high malaria burdens instead

of helplessly relying on the ebb and flow of philanthropic dollars,” she added.