A genetic study in Ethiopia reveals a complex network of resistance patterns in the malaria parasite, with older and newer resistances coexisting and varying geographically. 605 Plasmodium falciparum samples were analyzed between 2019 and 2023 in 15 districts.
A high prevalence of resistance markers to chloroquine (61.2%) and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (42.8%) was observed, despite these drugs no longer being used. The main marker of partial artemisinin resistance appeared in 10% of the samples, reaching 48.6% in one district. Furthermore, a genetic profile associated with reduced sensitivity to lumefantrine was observed in 93% of the samples.
Parasites with chloroquine resistance were more likely to carry partial artemisinin resistance. The study suggests the need for surveillance and locally tailored strategies.
