Every year, on August 20th, we observe World Mosquito Day to raise awareness about the grave consequences of mosquito-borne diseases and the importance of effective preventive measures. Malaria, one of the deadliest diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, continues to be a major public health concern worldwide.

As we commemorate World Mosquito Day, it is essential to reflect on the strides we have made in our battle against malaria. At the same time, we need to recognize that there is more that can be done to reduce the increasing risk of malaria around the world. This year, the USA has recognized the first cases of locally acquired malaria transmission in 20 years - highlighting the need to keep on top of this disease.  

The Stealthy Culprits: Mosquitoes and Malaria

Mosquitoes, often regarded as mere nuisances, are one of the deadliest creatures on Earth. The female Anopheles mosquito, in particular, is responsible for transmitting the Plasmodium parasite, which causes malaria—a disease that claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually.  

When an infected mosquito bites a human, the parasite is transmitted into the bloodstream. Once inside, the parasite travels to the liver, where it reproduces and multiplies. After an incubation period, the parasites are released back into the bloodstream, infecting red blood cells and causing malaria symptoms to manifest. The reproduction of the parasites can lead to severe illness, organ damage, and even death.

Alarming Statistics

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malaria continues to pose a significant threat to global health. Here are some eye-opening statistics:

• In 2021, Nearly half of the world's population was at risk of malaria.

• That same year, there were an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide.

• Malaria caused approximately 619,000 deaths in the same year.

• The WHO African region carries the heaviest burden, with about 95% of malaria cases and 96% of malaria deaths occurring there.

• Children under the age of 5 are the most vulnerable population, accounting for 80% of all malaria deaths in the African region.

Traditional Solutions and Preventative Measures

Preventing mosquito bites is crucial in the fight against malaria. Current preventative measures used in endemic countries to combat malaria can be effective but come with limitations. These include:

1. Sleeping under insecticide-treated nets

2. Indoor Residual Spraying of homes

3. Eliminating breeding sites

4. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers to reduce exposed skin

5. Avoiding outdoor activities when mosquitos are most active

These have either local effects or are limiting. We also know that resistance to insecticides is increasing, and behavior patterns are changing with up to 30% of bites now happening during daytime.

Safeguarding the Future: Combating Malaria with Innovation

One powerful solution that hasn’t fully been utilised is the use of topical insect repellents. While there are numerous repellents available on the market, the way they are currently designed is for ad-hoc use. In a malaria endemic country, this isn’t what’s needed – beyond efficacy, they need a repellent that is safe to be used daily, by everyone, like a sunscreen lotion and that offers a good experience, feeling and smelling pleasant.

“There are two reasons why repellents haven’t been used yet in a public health context before,” says Bassey. “Lack of adoption and lack of adherence. Both caused because people do not want to use the existing products.”

To create an innovative solution for these needs, LivFul has developed Akiva™ powered by STAYTEC™, a cutting-edge controlled-release technology, and Merck’s well-established repelling ingredient. This unique lotion formulation enables a smooth application, has a fresh scent, and has a safety profile that makes it suitable for individuals as young as 2 months old, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women.  

The STAYTEC™ technology ensures that our repellent lotion provides a long-lasting effect, offering up to 14 hours of reliable protection. This is particularly beneficial in malaria-endemic areas, where exposure to mosquito bites can happen at any time.  

The proof of a personal protective tool against malaria

In conjunction with Merck, LivFul is conducting a study at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Ghana, to show that repellents could be a public health measure. The study is split into three phases:  

1. Arm-in-cage studies

2. Natural setting studies

3. Larger target population studies

Following the initial stage, the second is in progress setting the pathway to a larger population study to help establish long lasting and safe insect repellents as a public health measure.  

Conclusion

On World Mosquito Day, it is essential to understand the seriousness of malaria and the impact it has on global health. As we work to see malaria elimination around the world, preventative measures, such as the use a new generation insect repellent, play a vital role. Akiva™ Anti-Mosquito Lotion, with STAYTEC™ technology, offers a robust and long-lasting solution to protect individuals against mosquito bites wherever they are, reducing the risk of contracting malaria. Together, let's raise awareness, promote prevention, and work towards a malaria-free future for everyone.

‍