FDA approves new drug to prevent malaria relapse

July 24, 2018  21:10

Researchers in the United States have approved a “new” drug for treating recurring malaria.

The drug, called tafenoquine is the first such anti-malarial drug to be given a clean bill of health in over 60 years.

The approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States is seen as a shot in the arm for the fight against recurring malaria.

Once it is allowed to sell in drug stores around the world, tafenoquine is expected to significantly reduce deaths from recurrent malaria.

Caused by plasmodium vivax, recurring malaria affects 8.5 million people around the world every year.

Over the years this type of malaria has been difficult to combat due to the virus’ uncanny ability to remain inactive in the human liver for years before regenerating and causing infections.

Full article: https://www.nation.co.ke/news/Tafenoquine-malaria-drug-approved/1056-4677932-x8ew9bz/index.html

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