A new study led by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has shown that the antiparasitic drug ivermectin can reduce malaria transmission by over 25 percent when used alongside standard prevention measures.

The findings, which come after large-scale trials in Kenya and Mozambique, offer new hope in the global effort to fight malaria.

The study, carried out by KEMRI in collaboration with the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and the Manhiça Health Research Center (CISM), revealed a 26 percent drop in malaria transmission when ivermectin was administered in combination with commonly used interventions like insecticide-treated bed nets.

Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the research was part of the Broad One Health Endectocide-based Malaria Intervention in Africa (BOHEMIA) project. It involved two major testing sites — Kwale County in Kenya and Mopeia District in Mozambique.

“We are pleased to have participated in this landmark study, that compliments on malaria control and prevention strategies in endemic regions like Kenya," said Prof Elijah Songok, Acting Director General of KEMRI.

"We are very excited that Ivermectin, which has been effective against several parasitic infections, now shows great potential in the fight against malaria and other neglected tropical diseases."

In Kwale, over 20,000 people took part in the trial. Each received a single dose of ivermectin for three consecutive months at the onset of the rainy season. Researchers monitored the effects closely and found that the drug was safe, with only mild side effects reported and no serious drug-related complications.

Lead entomologist Marta Maia from the University of Oxford, who was part of the BOHEMIA team, noted that the trial supports the potential of ivermectin in strengthening malaria control strategies.

“The findings suggest that ivermectin MDA could be a valuable complementary strategy for malaria control, particularly in areas where mosquito resistance to insecticides is a growing concern,” she said.

In Mozambique, the study faced unexpected hurdles, including disruptions caused by Cyclone Gombe and a cholera outbreak. Despite the challenges, the researchers highlighted the importance of involving local communities in public health efforts.

“One of the most important lessons we learned is that strong community engagement is essential. Trust and close coordination with the Ministry of Health and local leaders were key to community acceptance of the intervention," said Francisco Saúte, Director of CISM.

While the results are promising, the World Health Organization's Vector Control Advisory Group has called for further studies on ivermectin before broader recommendations can be made.