The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared Azerbaijan and Tajikistan as malaria-free countries after successfully eliminating the disease within their borders. This achievement is a significant milestone in global healthcare, as the malaria virus has been a long-standing health concern in many parts of the world. This announcement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of both countries’ governments and healthcare professionals. In this article, we delve into the factors that led to this remarkable accomplishment and examine the initiatives that were implemented to eradicate malaria from these two nations.
The World Health Organization has certified Azerbaijan and Tajikistan as malaria-free, bringing the total count of malaria-free territories and nations to 42. Malaria is a deadly disease caused by parasites spread by mosquitoes, and it still kills over 600,000 people worldwide each year. Although preventable and treatable, the disease remains a major public health issue, especially in the WHO’s African region where the vast majority of malaria cases and deaths occur. In 2021, the African region accounted for 95% of the world’s 247 million malaria cases and 96% of the world’s 619,000 malaria deaths.
The certification of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan as malaria-free comes after years of efforts to eliminate the disease in both countries, which are former republics of the Soviet Union. The agricultural irrigation systems that fuel cotton and rice production in both countries have historically put people at risk for the disease. In recent decades, public health officials in both countries have implemented insecticide and bed-net programs for homes, changed water management practices, and even introduced mosquito-eating fish to control insect larvae. Both countries’ public health systems also contribute to malaria diagnosis and treatment.
The WHO officially recognizes nations as malaria-free only after they prove interruption of local transmission chains for at least three consecutive years or more and can show they have surveillance and response systems to detect and deal with transmission.
WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the governments and people of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan for their accomplishment, stating that their success is further proof that, with the right resources and political commitment, eliminating malaria is possible. He also expressed hope that other countries can learn from their experience.
Although the fight against malaria continues worldwide, the certification of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan as malaria-free is a significant milestone in the global effort to eradicate the disease. Bed nets, seasonal treatments, and vaccination can all prevent the disease, and with continued efforts and resources, more countries may potentially achieve malaria-free status.
As we come to the end of this article, it is truly heartening to hear of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan being declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization. This milestone achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of countless individuals and organizations, who have worked tirelessly over the years to eliminate this deadly disease. It is a reminder that progress is possible, even in the face of daunting challenges. Let us take inspiration from the success of Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, and continue to work towards a world free from malaria. As the WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said: “No one should die from a mosquito bite.” Let us make this a reality.
