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SC Johnson's New WHO Recommendation Marks a Milestone in Malaria Control Innovation

In a significant leap forward in the global battle against malaria and other insect-borne diseases, SC Johnson announced that the World Health Organization (WHO) has given its endorsement to spatial repellents as effective tools for disease prevention. This groundbreaking recommendation is the first of its kind in over 25 years and can potentially save countless lives by reducing disease transmission in vulnerable communities.

Malaria remains a deadly disease, claiming the lives of over 600,000 people annually. To counter this, SC Johnson has dedicated over a decade and invested more than $100 million into the research and development of its spatial repellents—specifically the SC Johnson Guardian™ and SC Johnson Mosquito Shield™. These tools are designed to release active ingredients that repel mosquitoes from enclosed spaces, thereby preventing bites and the subsequent risk of illness.

The Science Behind Spatial Repellents

Spatial repellents are versatile, cost-effective solutions that can be used in various environments such as homes and schools. Not only are they easy to implement, but they also offer long-lasting protection—up to one year for the Guardian repellent. They are approximately the size of a sheet of paper, making them manageable for everyday use in settings where diseases like malaria are a threat.

“I'm thrilled that the WHO has announced a policy recommendation for spatial repellents as an innovative prevention tool,” stated Fisk Johnson, Chairman and CEO of SC Johnson. “This important milestone reflects the hard work and dedication of our team to combat diseases that threaten millions.”

SC Johnson's commitment is rooted in a not-for-profit initiative aimed at addressing health challenges for populations at risk. This latest WHO endorsement strengthens confidence in their products and opens new avenues for wider distribution to those most in need.

Collaborative Efforts to Combat Malaria

The company's spatial repellents have already been distributed to millions in collaboration with global health organizations like the MENTOR Initiative, Society for Family Health Rwanda, and United to Beat Malaria. These partnerships are crucial for effective outreach and education on the importance of spatial repellents in controlling mosquito populations and preventing diseases.

In addition to the WHO’s approval, SC Johnson’s spatial repellents have received pre-qualification listings which indicate safety and efficacy for procurement through various channels. Richard Allan, CEO of the MENTOR Initiative, commented on the importance of these tools: “There are over a billion people that would benefit from the SC Johnson Guardian™ and SC Johnson Mosquito Shield™ spatial repellents.” He expressed optimism, noting that these tools appear to be genuine game changers in the fight against malaria.

Manufacturing Expansion and Future Goals

Earlier this year, SC Johnson initiated production by launching two high-speed manufacturing lines at its Nairobi, Kenya facility. At full capacity, these lines aim to produce up to 20 million units annually, with plans for further expansion in Argentina to produce an additional 20 million units. This capacity increase is pivotal for reaching and protecting millions of families from diseases that may not have access to other preventive interventions.

Clinical trials conducted in countries including Indonesia, Peru, and Kenya have substantiated the effectiveness of SC Johnson’s spatial repellents in reducing disease risk by up to 33 percent. Continuous research and collaboration with organizations like Unitaid and The Gates Foundation underscore their commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and efficacy in their products.

A Broader Commitment to Community Health

Since 2013, SC Johnson has reached over 110 million people through its public health initiatives, education programs, and the distribution of life-saving repellents. Their efforts are a testament to the belief that innovation, when paired with a purpose-driven approach, can lead to substantial global health improvements.

In summary, SC Johnson’s achievement in securing the WHO’s endorsement for spatial repellents marks a transforming moment in malaria prevention strategies. This initiative not only enhances the company’s portfolio of public health solutions but also reflects a broader commitment to combatting diseases that threaten the livelihoods of millions worldwide. As SC Johnson continues to develop and distribute these crucial tools, the fight against malaria and other insect-borne diseases gains a significant ally in the ongoing battle for global health.