Malaria
THE CHALLENGE
Today, approximately 40% of the world's population—mostly those living in the world's poorest countries—are at risk of getting malaria. Malaria is found throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, and causes more than 300 million acute illnesses and at least one million deaths annually.
Almost 90% of deaths due to malaria occur in sub-Saharan Africa, mostly among young children. Malaria kills an African child approximately every 30 seconds. Malaria is the leading cause of school absenteeism in sub-Saharan Africa, and school children with malaria have greater difficulty with learning and concentration. Many children who survive an episode of severe malaria may suffer learning impairments or brain damage. Pregnant women and their unborn children are also particularly vulnerable to malaria. Malaria is a major cause of low birth weight, which in turn is a leading cause of perinatal mortality. Malaria also is a primary contributor to maternal anemia, which is a major risk factor in maternal mortality.
The spread and intensification of antimalarial drug resistance represents one of the most serious challenges to malaria control worldwide.
KEY INTERVENTIONS
The most effective way to prevent malaria is through the selective and safe use of insecticides that kill the malaria transmitting mosquito. There are two primary options for getting these insecticides into the homes of those most at risk: indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticide-treated bednets (LLINs).Prompt diagnosis and correct treatment of malaria is the other pillar of effective malaria control. In those diagnosed with malaria, correct use of antimalarial treatment will not only shorten the duration of the illness, but also reduce the frequency of complications and the risk of death.
