Malaria is a disease caused by a protozoan parasite called Plasmodium which is transmitted from person to person by the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito.
Malaria is one of the world’s deadliest diseases. It has a tremendous social and economic impact and is preventable.
HALF THE WORLD IS
AT RISK
In 2018 the WHO reported an estimated 228 million cases in 87 countries worldwide, the majority in pregnant women and children.
A CHILD DIES FROM MALARIA EVERY TWO MINUTES
In 2018 malaria claimed 405,000 lives. Children under the age of 5 accounted for 67% of these deaths.
90% OF ALL MALARIA
DEATHS OCCUR IN AFRICA
Africa is the most affected region because of scarce resources and infrastructure, socio-economic instability, and high malaria transmission throughout the year.
CURRENT MALARIA CONTROL METHODS
When used in combination, the current safe, effective, and proven control interventions have shown that the impact of malaria can be reduced.
- Mosquito Nets
- Anti-malarial Drugs
- Insecticide Spraying
Long-Lasting Insecticide treated bed Nets (LLINs), prevent malaria by creating a protective barrier against mosquitoes at night, when transmission typically occurs.
Providing a full course of anti-malarial drugs (Artemisinin-based combination therapies [ACTs]) can rapidly reduce the incidence and prevalence of the disease.
MALARIA CONTROL CHALLENGES
Most of the tools being used to control malaria today were developed in the last century or earlier. Today the cost and long-term sustainability of these tools pose challenges.
ACCESS TO CARE
Prompt diagnosis and treatment is the most effective way to prevent severe illness and death. Many people in malaria-endemic countries do not have access to health care, funds to pay for care, or understanding of when to seek care. Health systems in these countries often lack tools and resources they need. Improved systems for monitoring, and accurate reporting of malaria data are needed. Access to current malaria control methods (listed above) is also dependent on funding, available resources, education, and availability.
RISING COSTS
In most malaria-endemic African countries, malaria control is funded, in part or entirely, by external sources. The cost of sustaining malaria control and elimination efforts continues to rise without an increase in the global financial commitment.
BIOLOGICAL THREATS
Mosquitoes are developing resistance to insecticides and the parasites are developing resistance to drugs. This means the current control methods are not always as effective as they once were.