New Malaria Vector Discovered In Nigeria

A new malaria vector, identified as anopheles stephensi, has been discovered in northern Nigeria.

Director-General, Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) Prof. Babatunde Salako made this known while speaking to newsmen on Monday.

He said the discovery was the most recent research discovery and it was a rugged vector.

Salako stated that the vector is very difficult to eradicate and had not been found anywhere near West Africa.

Salako said that NIMR was currently looking at its implications for malaria control in Nigeria.

“We have done a lot of studies on vaccines and we are looking at vaccine development.

“We are working with five groups in a consortium to develop world local vaccines in Nigeria, which is different from production,” he said.