Controversial drug ivermectin could be the key to reducing mosquito bites — and the spread of malaria
In a buzzy new study, researchers found that the controversial drug ivermectin could become a powerful new weapon against malaria.
With mosquitos increasingly outsmarting traditional defenses, experts say the findings may mark a game-changing shift in the global fight against the deadly disease.
3 Most people get malaria when bitten by an infective mosquito carrying the malaria parasite.
nataba – stock.adobe.com
Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, is typically used to treat neglected tropical diseases like river blindness and elephantiasis.
But previous studies found it has a surprising side effect: It can kill mosquitos by turning human blood into a lethal cocktail for the pests, causing them to die after biting.
Curious if this could help curb the transmission of malaria, a parasitic disease spread through the bites of infected mosquitos, researchers tested the drug in Kwale, a coastal county in Kenya with high rates of the illness.
The study enrolled more than 20,000 participants ages 5 to 15, who received either a monthly dose of ivermectin or albendazole — a control drug — for three months. Their malaria status was then checked each month for half a year.
Six months in, the results were clear: Children given ivermectin saw a 26% drop in new malaria infections compared to those on albendazole, even in households with insecticide-treated bed nets were already in use.
Safety-wise, ivermectin held up well, causing no severe side effects and only mild, temporary reactions typical of its use in other tropical disease campaigns.
'We are thrilled with these results,' Carlos Chaccour, co-principal investigator of the study, said in a statement. 'With continued research, ivermectin … could become an effective tool for malaria control and even contribute to elimination efforts.'
3 Ivermectin is already used safely and widely around the globe.
Soni's – stock.adobe.com
An added bonus: Communities treated with ivermectin in Kenya also reported a sharp drop in bed bugs.
Meanwhile, a similar trial in Mozambique — cut short by Cyclone Gombe and a cholera outbreak in 2022 — found that ivermectin helped reduce skin infestations like scabies and head lice among participants.
Malaria remains one of the world's biggest public health threats, with nearly half the global population at risk.
Those infected often suffer high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like symptoms. Left untreated, the disease can escalate to severe complications including organ failure, seizures, anemia, coma and even death.
The new findings come as malaria cases are on the rise. The World Health Organization estimates 263 million cases in 2023 — 11 million more than the previous year — and nearly 600,000 deaths.
At the same time, mosquitos are evolving. They're developing resistance to insecticides and changing their habits to avoid traditional defenses like bed nets, including biting outdoors and during dawn or dusk when people are less protected.
3 The findings come as traditional mosquito control measures, like nets and insecticides, are becoming less effective in parts of the world.
New Africa – stock.adobe.com
'This research has the potential to shape the future of malaria prevention, particularly in endemic areas where existing tools are failing,' said Regina Rabinovich, director of ISGlobal's Malaria Elimination Initiative.
While malaria was once common in the US, the disease has been mostly eliminated here thanks to large-scale mosquito control efforts dating back more than seven decades.
Each year, about 2,000 cases are reported nationwide — mostly in travelers exposed abroad. However, in recent years, the US has seen a rare trickle of homegrown malaria cases for the first time in decades.
While the overall risk remains low for Americans, experts stress the importance of being able to recognize symptoms so you can act quickly if infected.
'If you have a fever, and they can't figure out why you have a fever, [and] if you spend a lot of time outside where there's a lot of heat and humidity, [malaria] should be considered,' Dr. Prakash Srinivasan of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health told reporters.
'When you catch it early, you can treat it,' he added.
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New York Post
a day ago
- New York Post
I did a parasite cleanse with herbs you haven't heard of — what TikTok won't tell you
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. When was the last time you dewormed yourself? 'When we did my seven-year-old's cleanse, day eleven was the day we saw the worms,' shared Nicole Marso, a creator who identifies herself as a 'Holistic Mama' on her TikTok page. As a health and wellness writer, it's not unusual for me to come across some unconventional health protocols. But when my algorithm started feeding me ads from people talking about taking herbal parasite cleanses and passing worms the length of a pencil, I couldn't just keep scrolling. As it turns out, parasitic infections are far more common than most people think, and in some countries, 'deworming' is considered a typical seasonal wellness routine. Symptoms are vague, including unexplained constipation, diarrhea, or bloating, which can easily be mistaken for other digestive issues. Fatigue is also common, as parasites can deplete essential nutrients. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 25% of the world's population has an infection related to an intestinal parasite. Cases are even higher in tropical and subtropical regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Certain cultures have been using herbs to expel parasites for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, pumpkin seeds, betel nuts, and sweet wormwood were used to treat a range of conditions, including tapeworm disease and malaria parasites. Today, modern parasite cleanses are gaining attention on social media, as people turn to data that suggests infections are closer to home than some might realize. The CDC estimates that 60 million people in the United States may carry some form of parasitic infection, often without knowing it. Even simple everyday activities can result in parasite exposure — consuming undercooked meat, drinking contaminated water, or swimming in lakes or rivers. Parasite cleanses are not for everyone. The FDA has not approved or evaluated parasite cleanse products and has also issued some warnings over labeling, safety, and effectiveness of certain cleanse kits. Some doctors have warned that parasite cleanses could also eliminate 'good bacteria' in the gut, and certain herbal and dietary supplements have also been linked to HDS-induced liver injury. As with any supplement, people need to consult their physicians before starting a detox protocol. Curious, skeptical, and just a little bit grossed out, I decided to (gently) dive into the world of parasite cleanses — first speaking with medical experts, and then trying the Touchstone Essentials' Para-Shield Herbal Cleanse myself. While a range of DIY-cleanses circulate on social media — including everything from herbal teas to ionic footbaths — there are also some scientifically-tested herbal remedies on the market. Touchstone Essentials offers Para-Shield, an herbal blend that is formulated to support the body's natural cleansing efforts and create an inhospitable environment for unwelcome visitors. Para-Shield incorporates Black Walnut Hull, Clove, and Wormwood, which are said to support the body's protective functions against microorganisms naturally. For further immune support, the blend also delivers essential antioxidants from Clove, Barberry Root, Ginger Root, and Yuzu. 'With a healthy gut, the body can better defend itself against external threats,' explained Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, a leading e-commerce detox and wellness brand that offers natural wellness solutions, including cleanse supplements. Stone believes that natural parasite cleanses can effectively target a wide range of harmful organisms, while also restoring balance in the digestive system. 'Supporting the gut lining — the intestinal barrier — can ease digestion, reduce inflammation, and help the body return to a more balanced state overall,' Stone explained. Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield Review We tested Para-Shield, an all-natural supplement rooted in hundreds of years of research and ancient medicine. The tincture, which comes in a 21-day supply, is formulated to help the body eliminate gut intruders and support digestive health for adults and children. How it Works According to Touchstone Essentials' website, Para-Shield offers a powerful yet gentle blend of organic herbs to help create an inhospitable environment for unwanted organisms in the body. For someone new to parasite cleanses (myself included), that might leave more questions than answers. For adults, the directions are simple. Take 10 drops twice a day for 3 weeks. For optimal results, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach. After the first three weeks, pause for one week, then repeat as needed. Para-Shield is also a suitable parasite cleanse for kids. Children ages 3 and up can take 5 drops per serving. And no, according to Stone, you don't need to have any symptoms of parasite exposure to take Para-Shield and reap the benefits. As someone who hasn't experienced any major issues indicative of parasite exposure (think nausea, abdominal pain, insomnia, etc.), I'm still safe to take Para-Shield for gut support and long-term health. 'Para-Shield is an herbal gut cleanse with a specialized formula that helps the body defend against microorganisms, supports gut detox, and soothes digestion,' Stone explained, adding that Para-Shield is a more gentle alternative to harsh pharmaceutical cleanses, including enemas and colonics. Black Walnut Hull, a key ingredient in Para-Shield, has been studied for its ability to kill unwanted microorganisms. Wormwood has been traditionally used for digestive issues, and Barberry Root, a natural antioxidant, is believed to help with cleansing and promote a healthy gut lining. Other ingredients like Ginger and Yuzu are added to help soothe the digestive system. While cleansing with Para-Shield, Stone recommends drinking an ample amount of water to help the body flush out toxins. It's also beneficial to eat a clean, nutrient-rich diet full of fiber, which works alongside the herbal cleanse to detox the digestive system. While each person is different, Stone suggests a minimum of three months for a thorough cleanse. Possible Benefits Removal of unwanted parasites Restoration of the gut microbiome Liver and kidney support Increased energy Reduced bloating Improved nutrient absorption Reduced stress Better sleep Clearer, smoother skin When I began taking Para-Shield, my expectations were not very high. I test supplements for a living, and it's rare for me to experience anything notable worth writing about. With previous gut health supplements and probiotics, I've experienced a little less bloating, a bit more energy, and maybe a few fewer skin breakouts. But, nothing mind-blowing. After sifting through Para-Shield reviews, my hopes got a little higher. Most supplements require a few months of consistent use to achieve the benefits. Para-Shield users have reported symptom alleviation in the first few weeks of use, including improvements in bloating, constipation, gut discomfort, as well as skin irritation. 'After cleansing, some people report healthy and regular digestion, reduced hunger and cravings, and improved energy levels,' Stone explained. 'Most people report feeling less bloating, a soothed stomach, and more regular bowel movements.' All of this sounds great on paper, but consistency is key. Fortunately, it's very easy to take Para-Shield, and the flavor is not bad at all (think sweet-and-light ginger-clove-yuzu). My friend who tasted it compared it to a mocktail. I plopped the drops directly into my mouth using the provided dispenser, but the tincture also mixes easily in water. After the first week of my cleanse, I felt pretty much the same overall, aside from a few more trips to the restroom. I didn't notice any dramatic physical changes, but there were no concerning side effects either — just better regularity. The only mildly inconvenient part was remembering to take it twice a day, especially on an empty stomach. But by week 3, I wanted to take it even more (yes, you can double the serving size for a more intensive cleanse). It's not easy to transcribe into words, but my digestive system felt like it had taken a three-week-long retreat and could suddenly relax. I was full after all my meals, less bloated, and more relaxed. My sugar cravings? Nearly gone. The number on the scale? Down, a tad. The biggest change? My energy. I had so much more that, for once, I looked forward to working out instead of dreading it. It's hard to say whether the supplement alone was responsible for these improvements, or if my fiber-rich diet played a role too. Either way, I was genuinely pleased with the results. And for the record, no, I didn't see any worms. Side-effects Here's where it can get a little scary. While Para-Shield does not report any expected side effects, individual responses may vary. In general, cleanses and detoxes are associated with a variety of possible short-term and long-term risks that you should be aware of. Take the aforementioned trips to the bathroom — very common. If you have somewhere to be, don't count on taking the tincture and getting there in time. Beyond increased bowel movements, it's also possible to experience vitamin or nutrient deficiencies, diarrhea (which can lead to dehydration), and other GI issues, per the Cleveland Clinic. According to Touchstone Essentials, 'die-off' symptoms can also occur as unwanted microorganisms are expelled from the body. The release of endotoxins can trigger a temporary reaction of discomfort in the digestive system, causing short-term fatigue. The symptoms should pass quickly, but users are instructed to stop the cleanse if they experience any more pronounced symptoms. Fortunately, I didn't experience any major side effects while taking Para-Shield for 21 days. No digestive discomfort, no headaches, no bloating, no lethargy, etc. I did take some precautions; I drank what felt like gallons of water a day to curb dehydration and tried my best to stick to a plant-based diet, incorporating lots of colorful fruits and veggies and skipping most processed foods (besides a slice of pizza or two). Despite my generally positive detox experience, I'm still cautious when recommending any cleanse program. Just because it's right for someone does not mean it's right for you. Para-Shield is not intended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the cleansing herbs. Some ingredients could also interact with other medications, which is why it's very important to consult your physician before use. Pros and Cons Pros: Para-Shield incorporates clinically studied, time-tested herbal ingredients that support detoxification and gut health at the same time The customer reviews lean very positive on taste, tolerance, and symptom improvement, with benefits being noticed in the first few weeks of use Para-Shield is vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from synthetic additives and fillers Cons: Para-Shield is not suitable for pregnant women, and it's possible that it could cause detox symptoms and interfere with other medications (always consult a physician before use) Requires consistent use for best results, and adults must take ten drops twice a day (preferably on an empty stomach) Final Thoughts My TikTok #foryoupage is nothing short of wild, and I'm no stranger to some woo-woo remedies. I've covered everything from testosterone treatment and heavy metal detoxes to anti-aging supplements that tout cellular repair. Very few protocols I've tested firsthand have delivered identifiable benefits. A detox works a little differently since your body is actively flushing out unwanted substances. It's often easier to tell when it's doing its job, because that process usually leads to faster, more frequent digestion (nature calls) as well as an overall sense of lightness. Temporarily, it may show on the scale, too. However, that might not translate to long-term benefits. As someone who tried a parasite cleanse without an awareness of having parasites, I was generally very impressed with the results. Sure, it's not the most convenient routine to take ten drops twice a day, but after noticing less bloating, fewer cravings, and more energy, I thought it was well worth it. For just $49, I think it's more than a reasonable investment to make in your overall health. How We Tested In order to evaluate the Touchstone Essentials Para-Shield herbal cleanse, I followed a structured 21-day protocol, mirroring the instructions on the website and the back of the bottle. Before, during, and after testing, I considered ease of use, side effects, internal and external benefits, and overall value. I also consulted Eddie Stone, the founder and CEO of Touchstone Essentials, for answers to frequently asked questions about parasite cleanses. Ease of use: A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. A cleanse protocol should be simple for any person to follow and integrate into their daily routine. I considered the required serving size (10 drops) as well as the frequency (twice a day) for 21 days, to make note of how easy it was to stick with the detox program. It is also recommended to take Para-Shield on an empty stomach, so users must consider planning their meals accordingly. Side effects: It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. It's important to consider that parasite cleanses can be accompanied by a range of potential side effects, including dehydration, headaches, frequent bowel movements, and reduced energy associated with 'die-off' symptoms, as well as other potential GI tract issues. I monitored any symptoms closely, keeping a journal, logging any adverse physical or mental side effects. Benefits: The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. The goal of a parasite cleanse is to eliminate parasites and alleviate symptoms of parasite exposure, which can range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to bloating and nausea. While taking Para-Shield, I tracked any improvements in digestion, energy, skin tone, and noted whether I was craving any certain foods, as well as how 'full' I felt after meals. Overall Value: At $49.00 a bottle for a 21-day supply, I evaluated the cost, safety, and effectiveness of the herbs used in Para-Shield for parasite removal and gut health support. I considered the requirements of upping water intake and the recommended dietary changes to evaluate the ease of Para-Shield parasite cleanse, while comparing it to other supplements and detox protocols I've tested. This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson's Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston's favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
The Hill
2 days ago
- The Hill
Fewer kindergarteners are being vaccinated, CDC data show
Vaccinations among kindergarteners declined during the 2024-25 school year compared to the year before, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rates dipped to 92.1 percent for the diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP) and to 92.5 percent for the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) and polio vaccine, the data show. The drop in vaccination coverage comes as the U.S. grapples with rising cases of the measles—one of the most contagious diseases in the world. There have been 29 outbreaks of the virus this year, resulting in more than 1,330 confirmed measles cases across 40 states, according to the latest CDC numbers. Herd immunity against measles requires roughly 95 percent of the population to be vaccinated against the disease, according to the World Health Organization. Vaccine coverage decreased in more than half of states during the last school year compared to the year before, with about 286,000 kindergartners attending school without documentation showing they completed the MMR vaccine series. Vaccine exemptions for one or more vaccines have also gone up, with a total of 138,000 kindergarteners exempt from a vaccine in the last school year. The number of exemptions rose to 3.6 percent during the 2024-25 school year from 3.3 percent the year before. Exemptions increased in 36 states and Washington D.C. with 17 states now reporting an exemption rate of more than 5 percent, the data show. The Trump administration has shaken up the country's federal vaccine policy, sparking concerns among the medical community about the future of vaccine access. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, who has a long history of vaccine skepticism, has changed the process for vaccine recommendations as well as who is eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. 'The decision to vaccinate is a personal one,' a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services told The Hill. 'Parents should consult their health care providers on options for their families.' The spokesperson added that vaccination remains the most effective way to protect children from serious diseases like measles and whooping cough which can lead to hospitalization and death.
New York Post
2 days ago
- New York Post
Controversial drug ivermectin could be the key to reducing mosquito bites — and the spread of malaria
Blood suckers, beware. In a buzzy new study, researchers found that the controversial drug ivermectin could become a powerful new weapon against malaria. With mosquitos increasingly outsmarting traditional defenses, experts say the findings may mark a game-changing shift in the global fight against the deadly disease. 3 Most people get malaria when bitten by an infective mosquito carrying the malaria parasite. nataba – Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, is typically used to treat neglected tropical diseases like river blindness and elephantiasis. But previous studies found it has a surprising side effect: It can kill mosquitos by turning human blood into a lethal cocktail for the pests, causing them to die after biting. Curious if this could help curb the transmission of malaria, a parasitic disease spread through the bites of infected mosquitos, researchers tested the drug in Kwale, a coastal county in Kenya with high rates of the illness. The study enrolled more than 20,000 participants ages 5 to 15, who received either a monthly dose of ivermectin or albendazole — a control drug — for three months. Their malaria status was then checked each month for half a year. Six months in, the results were clear: Children given ivermectin saw a 26% drop in new malaria infections compared to those on albendazole, even in households with insecticide-treated bed nets were already in use. Safety-wise, ivermectin held up well, causing no severe side effects and only mild, temporary reactions typical of its use in other tropical disease campaigns. 'We are thrilled with these results,' Carlos Chaccour, co-principal investigator of the study, said in a statement. 'With continued research, ivermectin … could become an effective tool for malaria control and even contribute to elimination efforts.' 3 Ivermectin is already used safely and widely around the globe. Soni's – An added bonus: Communities treated with ivermectin in Kenya also reported a sharp drop in bed bugs. Meanwhile, a similar trial in Mozambique — cut short by Cyclone Gombe and a cholera outbreak in 2022 — found that ivermectin helped reduce skin infestations like scabies and head lice among participants. Malaria remains one of the world's biggest public health threats, with nearly half the global population at risk. Those infected often suffer high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like symptoms. Left untreated, the disease can escalate to severe complications including organ failure, seizures, anemia, coma and even death. The new findings come as malaria cases are on the rise. The World Health Organization estimates 263 million cases in 2023 — 11 million more than the previous year — and nearly 600,000 deaths. At the same time, mosquitos are evolving. They're developing resistance to insecticides and changing their habits to avoid traditional defenses like bed nets, including biting outdoors and during dawn or dusk when people are less protected. 3 The findings come as traditional mosquito control measures, like nets and insecticides, are becoming less effective in parts of the world. New Africa – 'This research has the potential to shape the future of malaria prevention, particularly in endemic areas where existing tools are failing,' said Regina Rabinovich, director of ISGlobal's Malaria Elimination Initiative. While malaria was once common in the US, the disease has been mostly eliminated here thanks to large-scale mosquito control efforts dating back more than seven decades. Each year, about 2,000 cases are reported nationwide — mostly in travelers exposed abroad. However, in recent years, the US has seen a rare trickle of homegrown malaria cases for the first time in decades. While the overall risk remains low for Americans, experts stress the importance of being able to recognize symptoms so you can act quickly if infected. 'If you have a fever, and they can't figure out why you have a fever, [and] if you spend a lot of time outside where there's a lot of heat and humidity, [malaria] should be considered,' Dr. Prakash Srinivasan of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health told reporters. 'When you catch it early, you can treat it,' he added.
