The fight against schistosomiasis or bilharzia that affects African children disproportionately received a boost on Tuesday with the announcement of the success of phase-three clinical trials of a tablet for treating the tropical disease.

According to Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the soluble tablet called praziquantel demonstrated high levels of safety and efficacy during the clinical trials targeting pre-school children in Kenya and Cote d'Ivoire.

"The results of the trial confirm a favorable efficacy and safety profile for praziquantel in children three months to six years of age, affected by this neglected tropical disease," KEMRI said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

Development of the new drug to treat bilharzia which is highly preventable in Sub-Saharan Africa due to water contamination, was funded by an international consortium comprising industry, philanthropies and research entities.

The clinical trials that took place from 2018 to 2021 sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy profile of the drug among children infected with bilharzia-causing pathogens.

According to KEMRI, the drug was able to eliminate bilharzia causing parasites from the stool and urine of children within 17 to 21 days, paving way for its approval among local and international regulatory agencies.

In addition, no adverse side effects were reported among children who were administered the tablet which is minute, can be taken without water and is able to withstand humid tropical weather.