Prioritising in a crisis: what next for malaria research?

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Global malaria control gains are stalling or reversing.
• Funding shortfalls and emerging threats like resistance and climate change impact malaria control.
• Urgent need to re-evaluate malaria research priorities, funding, and conduct.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a dual mandate for malaria research: immediate life-saving interventions and preparedness for future threats.
• To outline three interlinked research priorities for effective malaria control.
• To advocate for a re-oriented, impact-driven research agenda.

Main Methods:

• Perspective piece drawing on diverse stakeholder input.
• Analysis of current challenges in malaria epidemiology and control tools.
• Identification of key research priorities and financing strategies.

Main Results:

• Prioritize pragmatic, equity-focused implementation and health-systems research for existing interventions.
• Sustain investment in innovations (vaccines, vector control, digital surveillance) with operational research.
• Focus on sustainable financing and evidence-informed decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Malaria research needs a dual mandate: protect lives now and prepare for future threats.
• A value-for-money, context-sensitive research agenda can stabilize programs and advance elimination goals.
• Integrated approaches, innovation, and strategic financing are crucial for overcoming current challenges.