About 30 million babies are born each year in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa where malaria spreads. In July 2025 Swissmedic approved Coartem Baby, the first antimalarial made for newborns and infants under five kilograms. Novartis and the not-for-profit MMV developed the medicine.
Before this approval, health workers often had to use adult drugs in improvised ways and that could cause underdosing or overdosing. Experts say maternal antibodies fade within weeks, so newborns quickly become exposed. Eight African countries joined the review and promised to fast-track national approvals within 90 days.
Difficult words
- malaria — A serious disease spread by mosquitoes.malaria is
- medicine — A substance used to treat illness.medicine meant
- approved — Officially accepted or allowed.
- treatment — Care to help someone feel better.
- vulnerable — Easily harmed or hurt.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think newborns were often excluded from drug studies?
- How can new medicines help vulnerable groups in the future?
Related articles
Climate shocks, crop losses and health risks in Africa
Climate shocks in parts of Africa are hurting crops and helping pests and mosquitoes spread. Farmers face failed harvests and public health risks like malaria and cholera, while experts call for better infrastructure and funding.
