KEMRI; A Dangerous Malaria Vector Discovered In Kenya

The Entomology Research team at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has revealed the discovery of a novel malaria vector (transmitter) that poses a major threat to Kenyans.

The vector known as Anopheles stephensi was first found in Laisamis and Saku sub-counties of Marsabit County, where the research was being performed, according to a statement issued by acting Director General Samuel Kariuki on Sunday.

The study, made in collaboration with the Ministry of Health’s Division of National Malaria Programme (DNMP), demonstrates that the vector flourishes in both urban and rural settings, implying a high transmission rate.

“Our surveillance studies indicate that the new vector, unlike the traditional malaria-causing mosquitoes namely Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles fimfests, is not only Invasive and can spread very fast to new areas, but also adaptive to different climatic and environmental conditions,” a part of the statement reads.

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