Pfizer drug initiative to aid 3 African countries

Global drug behemoth Pfizer has launched Mobilize Against Malaria, to help address critical gaps in malaria treatment and education. This three-country initiative comprising Kenya, Ghana and Senegal will be implemented over the course of five years (2007-2011). The drugmaker has selected key international and local health experts to develop and implement public health interventions that engage and educate treatment providers and patients in high-risk areas for the effective treatment and management of malaria.

Through Mobilize Against Malaria, the company will provide grants, evaluation support and the technical expertise of the Pfizer Global Health Fellows program to support the country initiatives. The firm noted that malaria is the leading cause of under-five mortality and constitutes 10% of Africa's overall disease burden. Each of the programs in Kenya, Ghana and Senegal aims to reduce the rate of malaria morbidity and mortality by improving malaria symptom recognition, treatment and referral through targeted training activities. Complementary community mobilization campaigns are also envisaged to improve the quality of treatment and strengthen the demand for care.

Karl Lintel, Pfizer's regional director for Africa, said: "Pfizer is committed to sharing best practices and deploying its assets; R&D, medicines, funds and its people to advance malaria control efforts and help save lives on the continent."