Malaria Breakthrough: WHO Approves First Long-Lasting Insecticide in Years
Africa bears the brunt of the burden, accounting for 94% of malaria cases and deaths
Family life group of African kids and mother in a village in Botswana
The Malaria Crisis: A Persistent Global Threat
Malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes, remains one of the world’s most severe public health challenges. Despite decades of progress and global efforts toward eradication, the disease continues to surge in many regions—particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 263 million people were infected with malaria in 2023, resulting in nearly 600,000 deaths. Alarmingly, three out of four deaths were children under five, underscoring the disease’s disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable populations.
Africa bears the brunt of the burden, accounting for 94% of malaria cases and deaths. Beyond its human toll, malaria strains healthcare systems, drains economic productivity, and deepens cycles of poverty in already fragile communities.
Game-Changer in Vector Control: Sovrenta® Gets WHO Nod
In response to growing concerns over insecticide resistance, Syngenta—a global leader in agricultural and public health innovation—has introduced Sovrenta®, a next-generation indoor residual spray that has just received prequalification by the World Health Organization (WHO).
“This marks an important milestone in Syngenta’s quest to bring its most advanced innovations to malaria-endemic countries,” said Andy Bywater, Global Head of Marketing for Vector Control at Syngenta Crop Protection. “We are advancing the health and safety of the millions still at risk.”
Sovrenta® joins Syngenta’s suite of proven vector control products such as Actellic®, which already helps avert up to 100 million malaria cases annually in over 30 countries.
Breakthrough Science: PLINAZOLIN® Technology
Sovrenta® is powered by Syngenta’s proprietary PLINAZOLIN® technology, which introduces a novel mode of action to combat mosquitoes that have developed resistance to conventional insecticides. By disrupting the insect’s nervous system and paralyzing its ability to move, Sovrenta® ensures a high level of control—even in areas where other products fail.
What makes it even more transformative is its longevity. A single application provides season-long protection, reducing the number of treatments needed and easing the operational burden for malaria control programs.
“Sovrenta® is the only insecticide recognized to provide year-long protection,” Bywater emphasized. “It gives malaria control programs a powerful tool to safeguard communities.”
A New Tool in Resistance Management
As resistance to pyrethroid-based insecticides becomes increasingly widespread, Sovrenta® offers a robust solution. When used in rotation with other insecticides, it can prolong the effectiveness of multiple interventions—helping public health authorities stay one step ahead of evolving mosquito populations.
“Sovrenta® is a crucial addition to our arsenal,” added Bywater. “We are dedicated to collaborating with partners to ensure it is deployed sustainably and effectively.”
WHO’s Endorsement: A Seal of Global Confidence
Sovrenta® has passed the WHO’s rigorous Vector Control Product Pre-Qualification (VCPP) program, which evaluates the safety, quality, and efficacy of vector control tools. WHO’s list serves as a trusted resource for international procurement agencies and governments as they plan bulk purchasing for disease-endemic regions.
With Sovrenta® now prequalified, malaria control programs across the globe gain a scientifically validated, highly effective tool to combat a disease that continues to rob millions of their health and future.
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