Ivermectin Shows Promise in Reducing Malaria Rates Amidst Resistance

A recent study has revealed that the administration of ivermectin to entire populations significantly lowers malaria transmission rates, presenting a potential new strategy in the ongoing battle against this persistent global health challenge. Conducted as part of the Broad One Health Endectocide-based Malaria Intervention in Africa (BOHEMIA) project, the study demonstrated a 26% reduction in new malaria infections when ivermectin was added to existing control methods, primarily long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs).

The BOHEMIA project, coordinated by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) in collaboration with the Manhiça Health Research Center (CISM) and the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, involved large-scale trials in two high-burden malaria regions: Kwale County, Kenya, and Mopeia district, Mozambique. The findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine on July 23, 2025.

According to Dr. Carlos Chaccour, co-principal investigator of the BOHEMIA project and researcher at ISGlobal, the results indicate that ivermectin could serve as a complementary tool in malaria control strategies, particularly in light of increasing resistance to traditional insecticides. "Ivermectin has shown great promise in reducing malaria transmission and could complement existing control measures," Dr. Chaccour stated.

The efficacy of ivermectin in the Kenyan trial was notable; children aged 5 to 15 who received the drug experienced a significant decrease in malaria infection rates. The study involved over 20,000 participants and more than 56,000 treatments. Positive results were also noted in terms of safety, with only mild and transient side effects reported, consistent with previous studies on ivermectin used for other tropical diseases.

In contrast, the Mozambique trial faced substantial challenges, including disruptions caused by Cyclone Gombe and a cholera outbreak. Francisco Saúte, director of the CISM, emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration with local health authorities in ensuring the success of such public health initiatives.

Additionally, the study found collateral benefits from ivermectin administration, including reductions in skin infestations like scabies and head lice, as well as a significant decrease in bed bugs reported by local communities in Kenya. This broad impact underscores the potential of ivermectin as a multifaceted public health solution.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the importance of these findings and suggested that further studies are warranted to evaluate the integration of ivermectin in national malaria control programs. Regina Rabinovich, principal investigator of the BOHEMIA project and director of ISGlobal's Malaria Elimination Initiative, noted, "This research has the potential to shape the future of malaria prevention, particularly in endemic areas where existing tools are failing."

As malaria continues to pose a significant health threat, with 263 million cases and nearly 600,000 deaths reported globally in 2023, the introduction of ivermectin as a viable adjunct to existing prevention methods could mark a pivotal advancement in public health strategies aimed at combating this disease. Experts call for continued research and community involvement to maximize the potential benefits of this promising intervention.