The second day of the 9th Annual Southern Africa Malaria Research Conference, hosted by the South African Medical Research Council’s (SAMRC) Malaria Research Group (MRG), saw significant progress in discussions on vector biology and control. The event, held at the Future Africa Campus at the University of Pretoria, brought together leading researchers and experts in the field of malaria research.
Focus on Vector Biology and Control
Thursday’s sessions centered on the theme “The role of operational research and vector control: Converging to eliminate malaria.” Presentations covered a wide range of topics crucial to understanding and combating malaria transmission.
Key presentations included:
- “Preserving history, advancing science: The legacy of the NICD entomological collection” – This talk highlighted the importance of historical data in current research efforts.
- “Examining the influence of temperature and rainfall on malaria dynamics in high and low transmission settings” – Researchers presented findings on how climate factors affect malaria transmission rates.
- “Bacterial diversity in Anopheles arabiensis Patton (Diptera: Culicidae) from KwaZulu-Natal” – This study provided new insights into the microbiome of a major malaria vector.
- “Malaria entomology and insecticide resistance in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province” – Presenters discussed challenges in a high disease burden region of South Africa.
Innovative Research Approaches
Several presentations focused on novel research methodologies:
- The optimization of irradiation protocols for bulk sterilization of Anopheles arabiensis mosquitoes, potentially advancing sterile insect technique applications.
- Studies on the effects of sublethal Temephos exposure on mosquito longevity and gut microbial composition.
- Research on the impact of larval plastic exposure and rural/urban pollutants on the life history traits of Anopheles arabiensis.
Climate Change and Malaria
A notable presentation examined the effects of extreme high temperatures on Anopheles arabiensis, providing valuable data on potential impacts of climate change on malaria transmission.
Looking Ahead
The conference continues to foster collaboration between researchers from various institutions, including representatives from prestigious universities across South Africa and international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Clinton Health Access Initiative.
As the conference moves into its final day tomorrow, participants are looking forward to the opening plenary session titled “The role of SIT in an elimination agenda: an introspection of progress on the application of the technology in South Africa.” This session promises to provide valuable insights into the use of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) in malaria control efforts within the country.
Additionally, one of the key thematic areas to be explored on the final day is Parasite Biology & Control. This theme is expected to cover crucial aspects of malaria parasite research and potential new strategies for controlling parasite populations.
For more information on the conference program, visit https://malariaconference.mrc.ac.za/programme.html.
