WHO reintroduce DDT for malaria control

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reintroduce the use of DDT (Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichcoroethane) for the
control of malaria saying it is most effective and safe.


The organization is therefore, presently promoting the use of Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) with DDT for the control of the disease in epidemic areas as well as with constant and high malaria transmission.

Explaining the rationale for the reintroduction of DDT, which was banned about 30 years ago on Thursday in Obuasi Dr Joaquim Saweka, the WHO representative in Ghana said later extensive research had shown that well-managed IRS programme using DDT pose no harm to wildlife or humans.

He said the study revealed that DDT presents no health risk when used properly adding; "WHO has given its blessings to DDT and it is important for countries to issue a clear statement outlining their position on IRS with long-lasting insecticides;" IRS is the application of long-acting insecticides on the walls and roofs of houses and domestic shelters in order to kill malaria carrying mosquitoes that land on these surfaces.

Dr. Saweka stressed that using IRS with DDT required a clear specification of where and how the spraying should be implemented in accordance with WHO guidelines.
The programmatic evidence of the research according to him showed that correct and timely use of IRS can reduce malaria transmission by up to 90 per cent.


He said, WHO was prepared to provide a facilitating role in terms of guidance and capacity building to assist countries and/or organizations that would adopt this new approach of IRS to help reduce the high mortality rate and improve the lives of the populace.
GNA