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A recent research has found that the immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells may be used to develop future malaria vaccines. The NK cells are found among people living in areas where the parasite is common. The team identified a molecule that was essential for activation of NK cells in response to malaria-infected blood cells. PfEMP1 is crucial for activating NK cells in a manner dependent on antibodies.

More than 90% of India’s population is at the risk of a malaria infection, as compared to Bangladesh at 11% and Nepal at 48%. According to the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, last year, there were 840, 838 cases of malaria in India, while 103 people died due to the disease. Some tips:

• Malaria mosquitoes grow in fresh water. It is therefore important to not let water stagnate in your house and the surrounding areas.
• Mosquitoes can lay eggs in money plant pots or in water tanks on the terrace if they are not properly covered. If the water pots for birds kept on terraces are not cleaned every week, then mosquitoes can lay eggs in them.
• Using mosquito nets/repellents in the night may not prevent malaria because these mosquitoes bite during the day time.
• Wearing full sleeves shirt and trousers can prevent mosquito bites. Mosquito repellent can be helpful during the day.

— Courtesy: Heart Care Foundation of India