World Malaria Day is observed on April 25th every year, and this year is no exception. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the global burden and the efforts being made to control and eliminate the disease. The theme for World Malaria Day 2023 is “Zero Malaria Starts with Me,” a call to action for individuals and communities to take ownership of malaria control and elimination efforts.
It is a parasitic disease that is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. The disease is preventable and treatable, yet it continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives each year, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 229 million cases of this disease worldwide in 2021, resulting in 619,000 deaths.
The burden of this disease is particularly high among children under the age of 5 and pregnant women. In pregnancy, it can cause severe anemia, stillbirth, and low birth weight, which increases the risk of death in both the mother and the child. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable. Simple and effective measures can significantly reduce the risk of malaria transmission and save lives.
Effective measures to prevent Malaria
The most effective way to prevent it is to avoid mosquito bites. Here are some simple yet effective measures to prevent this disease:
- Use insecticide-treated bed nets
Sleeping under an insecticide-treated bed net can reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes that transmit this disease. Bed nets are the most effective form of protection for people at high risk of malaria, particularly young children and pregnant women.
- Wear protective clothing
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially during the evening and night when mosquitoes are most active, can reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
- Use insect repellents
Applying insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 can also help prevent mosquito bites. Repellents should be applied to exposed skin and clothing.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so removing sources of standing water around homes, such as buckets, flowerpots, and discarded tires, can reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area.
- Indoor residual spraying
Indoor residual spraying involves spraying insecticides on the walls and ceilings of homes to kill mosquitoes that come into contact with the treated surfaces.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent severe illness, reduce transmission, and save lives. Symptoms of malaria include fever, headache, chills, and flu-like illness. If you develop any of these symptoms after traveling to an area with malaria, seek medical attention immediately.
Effective treatment for this disease is available, and early treatment can prevent complications and reduce the risk of transmission. However, the emergence of drug-resistant strains is a major challenge to control and elimination efforts.
Investing in research and innovation
To achieve the goal of zero malaria, it is essential to invest in research and innovation to develop new tools and strategies for prevention and control. The WHO has identified key research priorities, including the development of new insecticides and drugs, the development of vaccines, and the evaluation of new approaches to vector control.
Read more: Climate-driven disasters lead to surge in Malaria cases in Pakistan: WHO
Community engagement
Community engagement is a critical component of malaria control and elimination efforts. Community members can play an active role in preventing and controlling it by adopting preventive measures, seeking early diagnosis and treatment, and participating in vector control activities.Â
In conclusion, World Malaria Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the burden of malaria and the need for continued efforts towards its elimination. It is a day to recognize the progress made in control and the challenges that lie ahead. To achieve the goal of zero malaria by 2030, there is a need for increased funding, innovation, and collaboration between stakeholders. With sustained efforts and commitment, we can make the world malaria-free and ensure a healthy and prosperous future for all.
