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world The Guardian World 2026-05-02

WHO Approves First Malaria Drug for Babies, a Public Health Milestone

The World Health Organization has approved Coartem Baby, the first malaria treatment specifically for infants. This is a significant public health milestone, as malaria caused 610,000 deaths in 2024, with three-quarters being children under five in Africa. The new drug offers a safe and effective treatment option where none previously existed for the youngest victims.


<p>WHO prequalification of Coartem Baby means newborns can be safely treated rather than using medication for older children</p><p>The first malaria treatment for babies has been approved by the World Health Organization, opening the door to widespread use around the globe.</p><p>In parts of Africa, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4480393/">up to 18% of children under six months</a> will be infected with malaria, but there has historically been no safe treatment for the smalles...

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