Merck KGaA acclaims chikungunya virus beating IR3535

Merck KGaA has revealed that its insect repellent IR3535 is effective against a range of stinging and biting insects, including mosquitoes that transmit the chikungunya virus.

The company has said that research into the IR3535 ingredient has found that it is safe for use by children and pregnant women, meaning it has what Merck KGaA refers to as a “decisive advantage” over diethyl toluamide (Deet).

A number of tests and research carried out into the IR3535 ingredient by various countries has yielded encouraging results for the company.

The 1998 World Health Organisation report said that it was almost identical in efficacy to Deet, while the Thai Ministry of Health said that it offered 100 per cent protection for up to ten hours against both day and night mosquitoes.

Merck KGaA has said that the insect repellent will go through the EU authorisation procedure in 2006.

The chikungunya virus is currently most prevalent on Reunion Island and there is no known cure or vaccine for the condition.

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