Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Ice Bucket Challenge Returns In 2025 With A Powerful New Mission

In 2014, the Ice Bucket Challenge swept the internet, raising over $115 million for ALS research and transforming how the world engaged with health-focused crowdfunding. A decade later, the viral phenomenon is making a comeback — but with a poignant new purpose: <span>mental health awareness</span>. In 2025, a group of passionate students at the University of South Carolina (USC) have reimagined the concept into a movement called #SpeakYourMIND, an initiative that’s already raising both funds and conversations for the nonprofit Active Minds.

What began as a tribute to ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a debilitating neurological condition, has evolved into a broader commentary on an equally urgent but often less visible public health crisis — <span>mental health</span>. This revival isn’t just about viral stunts; it’s about starting real, transformative dialogue.

Spearheaded by Wade Jefferson, a USC junior and mental health advocate, the new challenge is the centerpiece of the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club’s campaign. Jefferson, who founded the club after the tragic loss of two close friends to suicide, envisioned a way to break down stigma and make mental health discussions more accessible, especially among youth. “We wanted to create something visual, visceral, and participatory — a challenge that could remind people how necessary it is to speak up,” Jefferson said.

<h2>How the New Ice Bucket Challenge Works?</h2>

Much like the original Ice Bucket Challenge, #SpeakYourMIND involves participants filming themselves pouring buckets of ice water over their heads, then nominating others to do the same. But this time, the emphasis lies in sharing personal stories or supportive messages around mental health, tagging friends, and donating to Active Minds.

Launched on Instagram in March 2025, the campaign’s momentum has exceeded all expectations. Initially hoping to raise $500, Jefferson and his team watched donations quickly soar past the $100,000 mark — and counting. High-profile supporters, including former NFL stars Peyton Manning and Emmanuel Sanders, have amplified its visibility.

Mental health conditions frequently emerge during adolescence and early adulthood — yet support systems, conversations, and awareness remain woefully underdeveloped in schools and colleges. According to Brett Curtis, Director of Community Fundraising at Active Minds, the campaign couldn’t have come at a more important time.

“Seventy percent of youth and young adults don’t know how to talk to a friend about mental health,” Curtis explains. “That’s a huge barrier. But when students lead these kinds of initiatives, it becomes more relatable, and people start opening up.”

Data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) shows that one in five adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition. Among teens and young adults, the rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation have sharply increased in recent years, intensified by the pandemic, social media pressures, and societal instability.

By giving youth a platform to lead the conversation — instead of just being the focus of it — the #SpeakYourMIND challenge is helping shift the culture of silence to one of empathy and openness.

The campaign’s virality is evident in its geographic spread. From South Carolina to Maryland to Denmark, participants are posting their videos with the hashtag #uscmind. Interestingly, the acronym “USC” has caused some amusing confusion online, with many assuming the campaign originated at the University of Southern California. In reality, it is Columbia, South Carolina, where this student-led movement first took shape.

This international visibility mirrors the widespread attention that the original Ice Bucket Challenge received in 2014. That version saw everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Bill Gates to President George W. Bush taking part, with the funds benefiting the ALS Association.

The ALS Association has now extended its support to the mental health initiative, acknowledging the power of viral philanthropy to mobilize change, regardless of the cause. “The format worked once to bring awareness to a little-known disease,” said a representative from ALSA. “There’s no reason it can’t work again — this time for mental health.”

While the icy splash garners attention, organizers like Curtis stress that the heart of the campaign goes deeper than donations. “This isn’t about how much money you can give or how many likes your video gets,” he says. “It’s about making mental health a normal part of everyday conversations just like physical health.”

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In 2014, the Ice Bucket Challenge swept the internet, raising over $115 million for ALS research and transforming how the world engaged with health-focused crowdfunding. A decade later, the viral phenomenon is making a comeback — but with a poignant new purpose: mental health awareness. In 2025, a group of passionate students at the University of South Carolina (USC) have reimagined the concept into a movement called #SpeakYourMIND, an initiative that’s already raising both funds and conversations for the nonprofit Active Minds.What began as a tribute to ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a debilitating neurological condition, has evolved into a broader commentary on an equally urgent but often less visible public health crisis — mental health. This revival isn’t just about viral stunts; it’s about starting real, transformative dialogue.Spearheaded by Wade Jefferson, a USC junior and mental health advocate, the new challenge is the centerpiece of the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club’s campaign. Jefferson, who founded the club after the tragic loss of two close friends to suicide, envisioned a way to break down stigma and make mental health discussions more accessible, especially among youth. “We wanted to create something visual, visceral, and participatory — a challenge that could remind people how necessary it is to speak up,” Jefferson said.How the New Ice Bucket Challenge Works?Much like the original Ice Bucket Challenge, #SpeakYourMIND involves participants filming themselves pouring buckets of ice water over their heads, then nominating others to do the same. But this time, the emphasis lies in sharing personal stories or supportive messages around mental health, tagging friends, and donating to Active Minds.Launched on Instagram in March 2025, the campaign’s momentum has exceeded all expectations. Initially hoping to raise $500, Jefferson and his team watched donations quickly soar past the $100,000 mark — and counting. High-profile supporters, including former NFL stars Peyton Manning and Emmanuel Sanders, have amplified its visibility.Mental health conditions frequently emerge during adolescence and early adulthood — yet support systems, conversations, and awareness remain woefully underdeveloped in schools and colleges. According to Brett Curtis, Director of Community Fundraising at Active Minds, the campaign couldn’t have come at a more important time.“Seventy percent of youth and young adults don’t know how to talk to a friend about mental health,” Curtis explains. “That’s a huge barrier. But when students lead these kinds of initiatives, it becomes more relatable, and people start opening up.”Data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) shows that one in five adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition. Among teens and young adults, the rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation have sharply increased in recent years, intensified by the pandemic, social media pressures, and societal instability.By giving youth a platform to lead the conversation — instead of just being the focus of it — the #SpeakYourMIND challenge is helping shift the culture of silence to one of empathy and openness.The campaign’s virality is evident in its geographic spread. From South Carolina to Maryland to Denmark, participants are posting their videos with the hashtag #uscmind. Interestingly, the acronym “USC” has caused some amusing confusion online, with many assuming the campaign originated at the University of Southern California. In reality, it is Columbia, South Carolina, where this student-led movement first took shape.This international visibility mirrors the widespread attention that the original Ice Bucket Challenge received in 2014. That version saw everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Bill Gates to President George W. Bush taking part, with the funds benefiting the ALS Association.The ALS Association has now extended its support to the mental health initiative, acknowledging the power of viral philanthropy to mobilize change, regardless of the cause. “The format worked once to bring awareness to a little-known disease,” said a representative from ALSA. “There’s no reason it can’t work again — this time for mental health.”While the icy splash garners attention, organizers like Curtis stress that the heart of the campaign goes deeper than donations. “This isn’t about how much money you can give or how many likes your video gets,” he says. “It’s about making mental health a normal part of everyday conversations just like physical health.”

ice bucket challenge returns in 2025 with a powerful new mission

Ishita Roy

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Weld County officials announced on July 7 that mosquito samples collected from two of the county’s three designated trap zones have tested positive for <span>West Nile Virus</span> (WNV). The affected areas include Greeley, Evans, Kersey, and LaSalle (Zone One), as well as Johnstown, Milliken, and Platteville (Zone Two).

Mosquitoes from the third trap zone—covering Firestone, Dacono, and Fort Lupton—tested negative for the <span>virus</span>.

Though no human cases have been reported in the county so far this year, health officials are warning residents to be prepared. With the arrival of hotter temperatures in July and August, Culex mosquitoes—the primary carriers of WNV—become more active and more numerous.

<h4>“A Permanent Summer Presence”</h4>

Jason Chessher, Executive Director of the Weld County Health Department, emphasized the seasonal nature of the virus. “The increasing hot weather often leads to favorable conditions for the Culex mosquito that carries West Nile Virus,” he said. “The public needs to be vigilant, because West Nile Virus has a permanent summer presence in Colorado.”

Most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, but those who do may begin to feel unwell three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and sometimes a rash.

While these symptoms may resemble the flu, WNV can lead to more serious complications in some cases, particularly among older adults and those with weakened immune systems. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for WNV, which makes prevention especially important. Weld County health authorities recommend seeking medical care promptly if any symptoms arise.

Health experts advise residents to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and virus transmission. These include:

<ul><li>Eliminate standing water around your home, such as in birdbaths, flower pots, gutters, or pet bowls, as these are prime mosquito breeding grounds.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535, or para-menthane-diol.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts and pants if you are outside during these peak hours.</li></ul>

Colorado saw a significant spike in WNV cases in 2023, recording 631 infections, 398 hospitalizations, and 51 deaths—the highest in the country that year. In contrast, 2024 has been comparatively mild, with just 76 reported cases statewide, 24 hospitalizations, and no fatalities to date.

Still, with Culex mosquito populations on the rise, officials say it’s crucial not to let your guard down. Weld County will continue monitoring mosquito activity closely and urges the community to follow safety guidelines to help prevent the spread of West Nile Virus this summer.

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Weld County officials announced on July 7 that mosquito samples collected from two of the county’s three designated trap zones have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The affected areas include Greeley, Evans, Kersey, and LaSalle (Zone One), as well as Johnstown, Milliken, and Platteville (Zone Two).Mosquitoes from the third trap zone—covering Firestone, Dacono, and Fort Lupton—tested negative for the virus.Though no human cases have been reported in the county so far this year, health officials are warning residents to be prepared. With the arrival of hotter temperatures in July and August, Culex mosquitoes—the primary carriers of WNV—become more active and more numerous.“A Permanent Summer Presence”Jason Chessher, Executive Director of the Weld County Health Department, emphasized the seasonal nature of the virus. “The increasing hot weather often leads to favorable conditions for the Culex mosquito that carries West Nile Virus,” he said. “The public needs to be vigilant, because West Nile Virus has a permanent summer presence in Colorado.”What Are The Risks?Most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, but those who do may begin to feel unwell three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and sometimes a rash.While these symptoms may resemble the flu, WNV can lead to more serious complications in some cases, particularly among older adults and those with weakened immune systems. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for WNV, which makes prevention especially important. Weld County health authorities recommend seeking medical care promptly if any symptoms arise.Steps to Stay SafeHealth experts advise residents to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and virus transmission. These include:Eliminate standing water around your home, such as in birdbaths, flower pots, gutters, or pet bowls, as these are prime mosquito breeding grounds.Use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535, or para-menthane-diol.Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.Wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts and pants if you are outside during these peak hours.Cases In The Past and PresentColorado saw a significant spike in WNV cases in 2023, recording 631 infections, 398 hospitalizations, and 51 deaths—the highest in the country that year. In contrast, 2024 has been comparatively mild, with just 76 reported cases statewide, 24 hospitalizations, and no fatalities to date.Still, with Culex mosquito populations on the rise, officials say it’s crucial not to let your guard down. Weld County will continue monitoring mosquito activity closely and urges the community to follow safety guidelines to help prevent the spread of West Nile Virus this summer.

west nile virus spotted in weld county mosquitoes, here’s what you need to know

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Growing up, a lot of us may have played with <span>Barbie</span>. Back then, there was a one-size-fits-all Barbie for everyone, unlike today, where the makers have finally understood that representation matters. In this new understanding of representation, even in dolls, the latest Barbie in chic blue-polka crop top and a miniskirt with chunky heels, is not just ready for summer, but also carries an insulin pump. The Barbie also has a continuous glucose monitor on her arm, and the button is held on by a strip of heart-shaped Barbie-pink tape. Her phone also shows an app with glucose readings. She also carries a light blue purse that holds all her supplies, including snacks that can help her manage her blood sugar throughout the day.

This is the brand's first doll with type 1 diabetes.

<h4>Why Does This Barbie With Type 1 Diabetes Matter?</h4>

Dollmaker Mattel worked with Breakthrough T1D, which was earlier known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, to design the doll and to represent the 304,000 kids and teens, as noted by the American Diabetes Association. who are living with type 1 diabetes in the United States.

The doll was launched on Tuesday with an aim to ask Congress to renew funding for the Special Diabetes Program, which had been first allocated by Congress in 1997. Currently, the program's funding will end after September.

The launch of the Barbie also focuses on the immense cuts made to federally funded projects in the past months, and thus, this launch is a way to draw people's attention on the said program that focuses on children with type 1 diabetes.

As per the American Diabetes Association, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, where your immune system mistakenly treats the beta cells in your pancreas that create insulin as foreign invaders and destroys them. When enough beta cells are destroyed, your pancreas cannot make more insulin, or makes so little that you need to take insulin to live.

It is a hormone that helps blood glucose enter your body's cells so that it can be used as energy. If you have diabetes, blood glucose cannot enter your cells, so it builds up in your bloodstream, causing high blood glucose or hyperglycemia. Over time, high blood glucose harms your body and can lead to diabetes-related complications if not treated.

<h4>Common Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes</h4>

<ul><li>Urinating often</li><li>Feeling very thirsty</li><li>Feeling very hungry—even though you are eating</li><li>Extreme fatigue</li><li>Blurry vision</li><li>Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal</li><li>Weight loss—even though you are eating more</li></ul>

<h4><span rel="noindex">Type 1 Diabetes In Children</span></h4>

A 2024 study published in JAMA Network, titled: <em>Prevalence of Type 1 Diabetes Among US Children and Adults by Age, Sex, Race, and Ethnicity</em>, notes that nearly 4 in every 1000 youths in the US reported having type 1 diabetes from 2019 to 2022. As per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, of the 38.4 million people who had diabetes in 2021, 352,000 were children and adolescents younger than age 20, including 304,000 with type 1 diabetes.

Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that even in type 1 diabetes, there are broadly two types:

<strong>Immune-mediated diabetes:</strong> This is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system damages the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. This is the most common kind of type 1 diabetes.

<strong>Idiopathic type 1: </strong>This refers to rare forms of the disease with no known cause.

In children, there could be many factors that can cause type 1 diabetes, including if a family member has a condition, if the child is White, is from Finland or Sardinia, or is aged between 4 and 6 or 10 and 14.

<h4>How Is Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosed In Children?</h4>

To diagnose type 1 diabetes, the healthcare provider will start by asking about your child’s symptoms and overall health history. They may also ask questions about your family’s medical background. A physical exam will be done, and your child may need some blood tests, such as:

<strong>Fasting plasma glucose test:</strong> This checks blood sugar levels after your child hasn’t eaten for at least 8 hours.

<strong>Random plasma glucose test: </strong>This measures blood sugar at any time, especially if your child is showing symptoms like extreme thirst, frequent urination, or increased hunger.

<strong>A1C test:</strong> This gives an average of your child’s blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. A high A1C level can help confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.

<h4>How is Type 1 Diabetes Treated in Children?</h4>

Children with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin to manage their blood sugar. Insulin can be given either through injections or an insulin pump. Your child’s healthcare team will teach you how to use whichever method is best for your child.

<strong>Healthy eating:</strong> This includes planning meals carefully, counting carbohydrates, and eating at regular times to help control blood sugar.

<strong>Physical activity:</strong> Regular exercise helps lower blood sugar levels.

<strong>Monitoring blood sugar:</strong> This includes checking levels several times a day, often using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

<strong>Testing urine:</strong> To check for ketones, which can be a sign of a serious complication if blood sugar is too high.

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Growing up, a lot of us may have played with Barbie. Back then, there was a one-size-fits-all Barbie for everyone, unlike today, where the makers have finally understood that representation matters. In this new understanding of representation, even in dolls, the latest Barbie in chic blue-polka crop top and a miniskirt with chunky heels, is not just ready for summer, but also carries an insulin pump. The Barbie also has a continuous glucose monitor on her arm, and the button is held on by a strip of heart-shaped Barbie-pink tape. Her phone also shows an app with glucose readings. She also carries a light blue purse that holds all her supplies, including snacks that can help her manage her blood sugar throughout the day.This is the brand's first doll with type 1 diabetes.Why Does This Barbie With Type 1 Diabetes Matter?Dollmaker Mattel worked with Breakthrough T1D, which was earlier known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, to design the doll and to represent the 304,000 kids and teens, as noted by the American Diabetes Association. who are living with type 1 diabetes in the United States.The doll was launched on Tuesday with an aim to ask Congress to renew funding for the Special Diabetes Program, which had been first allocated by Congress in 1997. Currently, the program's funding will end after September.The launch of the Barbie also focuses on the immense cuts made to federally funded projects in the past months, and thus, this launch is a way to draw people's attention on the said program that focuses on children with type 1 diabetes.What Is Type 1 Diabetes?As per the American Diabetes Association, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, where your immune system mistakenly treats the beta cells in your pancreas that create insulin as foreign invaders and destroys them. When enough beta cells are destroyed, your pancreas cannot make more insulin, or makes so little that you need to take insulin to live.What Is Insulin?It is a hormone that helps blood glucose enter your body's cells so that it can be used as energy. If you have diabetes, blood glucose cannot enter your cells, so it builds up in your bloodstream, causing high blood glucose or hyperglycemia. Over time, high blood glucose harms your body and can lead to diabetes-related complications if not treated.Common Symptoms of Type 1 DiabetesUrinating oftenFeeling very thirstyFeeling very hungry—even though you are eatingExtreme fatigueBlurry visionCuts/bruises that are slow to healWeight loss—even though you are eating moreType 1 Diabetes In ChildrenA 2024 study published in JAMA Network, titled: Prevalence of Type 1 Diabetes Among US Children and Adults by Age, Sex, Race, and Ethnicity, notes that nearly 4 in every 1000 youths in the US reported having type 1 diabetes from 2019 to 2022. As per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, of the 38.4 million people who had diabetes in 2021, 352,000 were children and adolescents younger than age 20, including 304,000 with type 1 diabetes.Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that even in type 1 diabetes, there are broadly two types:Immune-mediated diabetes: This is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system damages the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. This is the most common kind of type 1 diabetes.Idiopathic type 1: This refers to rare forms of the disease with no known cause.In children, there could be many factors that can cause type 1 diabetes, including if a family member has a condition, if the child is White, is from Finland or Sardinia, or is aged between 4 and 6 or 10 and 14.How Is Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosed In Children?To diagnose type 1 diabetes, the healthcare provider will start by asking about your child’s symptoms and overall health history. They may also ask questions about your family’s medical background. A physical exam will be done, and your child may need some blood tests, such as:Fasting plasma glucose test: This checks blood sugar levels after your child hasn’t eaten for at least 8 hours.Random plasma glucose test: This measures blood sugar at any time, especially if your child is showing symptoms like extreme thirst, frequent urination, or increased hunger.A1C test: This gives an average of your child’s blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. A high A1C level can help confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.How is Type 1 Diabetes Treated in Children?Children with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin to manage their blood sugar. Insulin can be given either through injections or an insulin pump. Your child’s healthcare team will teach you how to use whichever method is best for your child.Treatment also involves:Healthy eating: This includes planning meals carefully, counting carbohydrates, and eating at regular times to help control blood sugar.Physical activity: Regular exercise helps lower blood sugar levels.Monitoring blood sugar: This includes checking levels several times a day, often using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).Testing urine: To check for ketones, which can be a sign of a serious complication if blood sugar is too high.

hundreds of us children have type 1 diabetes, now their barbie has it too

First-Ever Malaria Drug For Infants Approved, Here’s What It Means

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The world has finally reached a milestone in the fight against malaria: the first-ever treatment specifically designed for newborns and very young infants has been approved. Until now, these vulnerable patients—often weighing less than 4.5 kilograms—were treated with medications intended for older children, risking overdoses and under-dosing due to immature metabolism. With the approval of Coartem Baby—also marketed as Riamet Baby—health authorities and families in malaria-endemic regions now have a safer, customized option.

Global malaria statistics are sobering. In 2023, there were approximately 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths worldwide—94% of cases and 95% of deaths occurred in Africa, and children under five accounted for nearly three-quarters of fatalities.

Treating infants using formulations developed for larger children carried significant risks. Their livers process drugs differently, making standardized dosing unreliable—and in some cases dangerous.

Developed by Novartis with support from Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), Coartem Baby combines artemether and lumefantrine in doses appropriate for infants weighing between 2 and 5 kg (4.4–11 lbs). Approved by Swissmedic under its Global Health Products fast-track, it is expected to swiftly receive authorization in eight African countries—including Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Its design addresses key challenges: the medicine dissolves easily—even when mixed into breast milk—has a sweet cherry flavor to aid dosing, and is suitable for field distribution 

This development marks a major advance in improving access to malaria care for the youngest and most vulnerable. Until now, infants under 11 pounds were unable to receive approved treatments or vaccines—which only start at five months of age.

Professor Umberto D’Alessandro from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine emphasized that immature liver function in newborns necessitates tailored dosing—older-child formulations are simply unsuitable.

This is a rare moment of alignment, easy-to-administer drug formulation, rapid regulatory approval, and readiness for deployment.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Malaria Drug</span> for Babies: Dosing &amp; Safety Trials</h2>

Approval was based on a combined Phase II/III trial—CALINA—which tested dosage accuracy and safety in infants between 2–5 kg. These trials confirmed that the drug is effective and safe when administered in adjusted doses for neonatal metabolism.

The core months of malaria treatment—during wet seasons—now will include safer options for infants, helping treat early-life P. falciparum infections before they evolve into severe disease.

While malaria vaccines—such as RTS,S (Mosquirix) and R21—have been rolled out for children aged five months and older, infants still face a vulnerability gap.

Preventive interventions like insecticide-treated nets and indoor spraying have saved lives—yet funding remains insufficient. The recent decline in malaria aid further threatens progress. In this context, Coartem Baby offers a practical treatment solution during peak malaria risk periods, when vaccine coverage may still be pending.

Novartis plans to introduce the drug largely on a not-for-profit basis, especially in African regions where it is most needed. Existing global health financing channels—like the Global Fund and PMI—will likely support distribution. However, sustaining coverage depends on ongoing investment.

With global aid tightening and climate change expanding malaria zones, this infant treatment could become vital—but only if maintained through consistent support.

Following Swiss approval, rapid reviews are underway in eight African countries, expected to conclude within 90 days. Monitoring effectiveness, adverse events, and real-world outcomes will be key. Longitudinal studies that track infant recovery, recurrence, and safety post-discharge will provide critical data.

Malaria poses a severe threat to infants, leading to high mortality rates if left untreated. With this new formulation, babies who previously lacked options can now receive age-appropriate, safe treatment—preferably administered in combination with preventive strategies like bed nets and future vaccines.

Because for malaria—and especially for its youngest victims—the difference between no care and the right care can mean life or death.

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malaria deaths africa

malaria drug rollout

The world has finally reached a milestone in the fight against malaria: the first-ever treatment specifically designed for newborns and very young infants has been approved. Until now, these vulnerable patients—often weighing less than 4.5 kilograms—were treated with medications intended for older children, risking overdoses and under-dosing due to immature metabolism. With the approval of Coartem Baby—also marketed as Riamet Baby—health authorities and families in malaria-endemic regions now have a safer, customized option.Global malaria statistics are sobering. In 2023, there were approximately 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths worldwide—94% of cases and 95% of deaths occurred in Africa, and children under five accounted for nearly three-quarters of fatalities.Treating infants using formulations developed for larger children carried significant risks. Their livers process drugs differently, making standardized dosing unreliable—and in some cases dangerous.Developed by Novartis with support from Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), Coartem Baby combines artemether and lumefantrine in doses appropriate for infants weighing between 2 and 5 kg (4.4–11 lbs). Approved by Swissmedic under its Global Health Products fast-track, it is expected to swiftly receive authorization in eight African countries—including Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.Its design addresses key challenges: the medicine dissolves easily—even when mixed into breast milk—has a sweet cherry flavor to aid dosing, and is suitable for field distribution novartis.com.Why It Matters Now?This development marks a major advance in improving access to malaria care for the youngest and most vulnerable. Until now, infants under 11 pounds were unable to receive approved treatments or vaccines—which only start at five months of age.Professor Umberto D’Alessandro from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine emphasized that immature liver function in newborns necessitates tailored dosing—older-child formulations are simply unsuitable.This is a rare moment of alignment, easy-to-administer drug formulation, rapid regulatory approval, and readiness for deployment.Malaria Drug for Babies: Dosing & Safety TrialsApproval was based on a combined Phase II/III trial—CALINA—which tested dosage accuracy and safety in infants between 2–5 kg. These trials confirmed that the drug is effective and safe when administered in adjusted doses for neonatal metabolism.The core months of malaria treatment—during wet seasons—now will include safer options for infants, helping treat early-life P. falciparum infections before they evolve into severe disease.While malaria vaccines—such as RTS,S (Mosquirix) and R21—have been rolled out for children aged five months and older, infants still face a vulnerability gap.Preventive interventions like insecticide-treated nets and indoor spraying have saved lives—yet funding remains insufficient. The recent decline in malaria aid further threatens progress. In this context, Coartem Baby offers a practical treatment solution during peak malaria risk periods, when vaccine coverage may still be pending.Novartis plans to introduce the drug largely on a not-for-profit basis, especially in African regions where it is most needed. Existing global health financing channels—like the Global Fund and PMI—will likely support distribution. However, sustaining coverage depends on ongoing investment.With global aid tightening and climate change expanding malaria zones, this infant treatment could become vital—but only if maintained through consistent support.Following Swiss approval, rapid reviews are underway in eight African countries, expected to conclude within 90 days. Monitoring effectiveness, adverse events, and real-world outcomes will be key. Longitudinal studies that track infant recovery, recurrence, and safety post-discharge will provide critical data.Malaria poses a severe threat to infants, leading to high mortality rates if left untreated. With this new formulation, babies who previously lacked options can now receive age-appropriate, safe treatment—preferably administered in combination with preventive strategies like bed nets and future vaccines.Because for malaria—and especially for its youngest victims—the difference between no care and the right care can mean life or death.

first-ever malaria drug for infants approved, here’s what it means

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