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Indian pharma researchers are now focusing on monoclonal antibodies to treat malaria. The current research is exploring new antimalarial drugs and strategies, including monoclonal antibodies, which show potential in preventing malaria infection.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru has been involved in research on malaria, including investigating the potential of garlic oil in combination with artemether to treat malaria. The researchers found that the combination showed promising results in mice.
From a current medical perspective, the latest advances in malaria treatment include Tafenoquine, approved for preventing relapse of Plasmodium vivax malaria. Additionally, Artesunate is the preferred treatment for severe malaria, and Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs) are recommended for uncomplicated falciparum malaria.
On the occasion of the World Malaria Day 2025 observed annually on April 25, this year’s theme is "Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite." The theme emphasizes the need for renewed commitment, innovative strategies, and continued investment in the fight against malaria.
Further it is reported that Prof. Utpal Tatu's Lab, Department of Biochemistry, IISc has been characterizing the expression, localization, and complexes of abundant chaperones expressed by the malaria parasite in human red blood cells, including Hsp40, Hsp60, Hsp70, Hsp90, and Hsp100. Studies have shown that Hsp90 is essential for the parasite and may be a potential drug target against malaria.
From Karnataka pharma, Micro Labs in October 2024 acquired Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited (Swipha), a leading pharmaceutical company in Nigeria. Swipha is engaged in manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of high quality, affordable, branded generics, and INN. The portfolio includes therapeutic classes of central nervous system, anti-malaria, anti-infectives. Swipha is also first in Nigeria, West and Central Africa to get a WHO pre-qualification for sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine, anti-malaria drugs.
Rakesh Jain, CEO, Reliance General Insurance, said it is essential to acknowledge the critical role of risk protection in public health outcomes. India’s journey toward a malaria-free future is a remarkable story of resilience, innovation, and collective action. With over a 69% decline in malaria cases and deaths between 2017 and 2023, and 122 districts reporting zero cases last year, we are moving closer to our national vision of eliminating malaria.
We believe that access to quality healthcare is not a privilege but a right. While preventive measures like maintaining hygiene and keeping our surroundings clean are crucial, no one is invincible to disease. Malaria, though preventable, can still cause significant physical and financial strain. A comprehensive health insurance policy plays a vital role in protecting individuals and families from the financial burden of treatment. It ensures that timely care is accessible without the worry of out-of-pocket expenses. This World Malaria Day, let us pledge to stay vigilant, embrace preventive practices, and ensure financial preparedness through health insurance because together, we can conquer malaria and create a healthier, more secure India, said Jain.
Sunita Kapoor, director & laboratory head, City X-Ray and Scan Clinic noted, that one of the most pressing issues remains the timely and accurate diagnosis of the disease. While Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and microscopy are the standard tools for detection, their use is often inconsistent, especially in under-resourced or unregulated healthcare settings. Testing is still patchy in many parts of the country. In remote and tribal areas, where malaria remains endemic, patients are often treated symptomatically without lab confirmation.
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