MALARIA PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT IN NEWBORNS: WHO GUIDELINES AND GLOBAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS
Malaria remains a major global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the World Health Organization identifies pregnant women and young children as high-risk groups. Although newborns benefit from maternal antibodies and foetal haemoglobin, they are still vulnerable to neonatal malaria, which may be congenital (via placental transmission) or acquired after birth. The condition is often underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms such as fever, poor feeding, and jaundice. WHO does not provide a specific neonatal antimalarial programme but emphasises integrated preventive strategies targeting mothers and communities. These include intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), use of insecticide-treated nets, prompt diagnosis and treatment of malaria in pregnancy, and vector control measures. Together, these reduce maternal infection and neonatal exposure. Treatment of neonatal malaria relies on cautious use of parenteral antimalarials, supportive care, and careful dosing due to limited pharmacological data. Management is complicated by diagnostic challenges, limited research, and health system constraints. Globally, WHO strategies prioritise prevention, surveillance, and system strengthening. Ultimately, protecting newborns depends on effective maternal care and reduced transmission. Thus, the most effective “newborn antimalarial” is not a drug, but a strong, integrated health system.
