WHO-recommended mosquito repellents can dramatically cut dengue, malaria risk: How they work

By Admin

30 Aug, 2025

Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and West Nile virus continue to pose major health threats worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. While vaccines and medicines are being developed, prevention remains the most effective weapon in reducing the spread of these deadly infections. Now, a new World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed solution could change the way we fight mosquitoes.

A breakthrough in mosquito control

A new study, published in eBioMedicine, analysed more than 1.7 million mosquitoes over 25 years and found that spatial repellents—lightweight sheets that release mosquito-repelling vapours—can cut mosquito bites by over 50 per cent, with some trials showing up to 75 per cent protection against dangerous malaria-carrying mosquitoes like Anopheles arabiensis.

Unlike traditional repellents such as creams, sprays, or coils, these sheets—also called spatial emanators—do not require skin application, heat, or electricity. They continuously release pyrethroid-based chemicals into the air, creating a protective shield indoors and outdoors.

Backed by WHO approval

The WHO endorsement of spatial repellents marks a big milestone in the global fight against mosquito-borne diseases. Health experts believe this recognition will encourage wider adoption, especially in countries with high burdens of malaria and dengue.

Dr. Ingrid Chen, Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco, explained:
“We finally have a new way to protect against mosquito bites. It’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to use, so it can help save lives in all parts of the world.”

Why this matters for public health

Mosquito-borne diseases often start with mild symptoms like fever or skin irritation but can escalate into severe, life-threatening conditions if untreated. Children, pregnant women, and people in low-resource settings are particularly vulnerable.

With WHO support, spatial repellents could become a powerful addition to existing mosquito-control strategies like bed nets, insecticide sprays, and community clean-up drives. For millions in high-risk regions, this innovation may finally provide a safe, simple, and long-lasting layer of protection.

How spatial repellents work

• About the size of a sheet of paper.
  
  

• Contain pyrethroid-based vapours that repel mosquitoes.
  
  

• Do not require electricity, batteries, or direct contact.
  
  

• Effective in homes, schools, offices, and public areas.
  
  

• Can provide protection for up to one year.
  
  

Tips to stay safe from mosquitoes

Even with new technologies, experts recommend combining spatial repellents with basic precautions:

• Remove stagnant water near homes to stop mosquito breeding.
  
  

• Wear long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing, especially in the evenings.
  
  

• Use mosquito nets while sleeping.
  
  

• Keep surroundings clean and garbage-free.
  
  

Looking ahead

With widespread adoption, spatial repellents could save thousands of lives every year in Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and beyond. By offering an affordable, easy-to-use, and effective way to reduce mosquito bites, this WHO-approved innovation may become a game-changer in the fight against malaria, dengue, and other mosquito-borne diseases.