Evaluation of the protective efficacy of a spatial repellent to reduce malaria incidence in children in Mali compared to placebo: study protocol for a cluster-randomized double-blinded control trial (the AEGIS program).

Background: Spatial repellents have been widely used for the prevention of mosquito bites but their efficacy in reducing mosquito-borne diseases has never been evaluated in Africa. Additionally, spatial repellents have the potential of being critical tools in the prevention of mosquito-borne diseases in contexts where typical vectors control efforts such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spray (IRS) are inaccessible or underutilized such as among displaced populations or in emergency relief settings. To address this knowledge gap, Kolondieba District, Sikasso Region, Mali was selected as a site to estimate the impact of the Mosquito Shield™, a spatial repellent that incorporates transfluthrin on a plastic sheet, on malaria-related outcomes.

Sample Transport Optimization: Mali Pilot Study.

In Mali, qualified laboratories for testing of dangerous pathogens are centralized in Bamako. Creating a specimen transport system respecting timeline, specimen quality, biosafety, and biosecurity standards is a challenge. The current ad hoc system that relies on untrained public transport companies carries risks of spoilage, accidental release of pathogens, and delays, which compromise specimen quality.