Malaria Prevention and Eradication Efforts Yield Promising Results
Progress in Malaria Prevention and Eradication
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a report highlighting the significant progress made in preventing and eradicating malaria, one of the most common tropical diseases. According to the report, since 2000, an estimated 2.2 billion cases of malaria have been prevented through risk education, use of mosquito nets, and vaccinations. This has resulted in the averted death of approximately 12.7 million people.
Seventeen Countries Routinely Vaccinate Young Children Against Malaria
The report also notes that seventeen countries now routinely vaccinate young children against malaria, a development that could potentially save tens of thousands of lives each year. This is a significant achievement, given the vast number of malaria cases reported annually.
Understanding Malaria
Malaria is caused by a parasite transmitted by anopheles mosquitoes, which bite mainly in the evening and at night. The disease causes high fever and aching limbs, and can be treated with medication. It is no surprise, therefore, that it remains a significant public health concern, particularly in African countries where many people still lack access to effective prevention and treatment measures.
Current Situation
According to the WHO report, 597,000 people died of malaria in 2023, a slight decline in fatalities, but with four per cent more infections, totalling 263 million. It is worth noting that 95 per cent of these deaths occurred in African countries, where access to prevention and treatment remains a significant challenge, particularly for small children.
Progress Towards Eradication
Despite the challenges, there have been significant strides made in the fight against malaria. The WHO has reported that the infectious disease has been eradicated in 44 countries and in the French Indian Ocean territory of La Réunion. Additionally, 25 countries where malaria still occurs now have fewer than 10 cases per year, indicating a decline in the number of cases reported. In Africa, the mortality rate has been reduced by 16 per cent since 2015.
Conclusion
The progress made in preventing and eradicating malaria is a testament to the tireless efforts of health professionals, researchers, and policymakers. While there is still much work to be done, these results offer hope for a future where malaria is no longer a significant public health concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many cases of malaria have been prevented since 2000?
Answer: An estimated 2.2 billion cases of malaria have been prevented since 2000 through risk education, use of mosquito nets, and vaccinations. - How many deaths have been averted?
Answer: Approximately 12.7 million deaths have been averted since 2000. - How many countries now routinely vaccinate young children against malaria?
Answer: Seventeen countries now routinely vaccinate young children against malaria. - How many people died of malaria in 2023?
Answer: 597,000 people died of malaria in 2023.