Title: Belize Achieves Malaria-Free Status after 70 Years of Efforts, WHO Certifies
Date: June 21, 2023
(Reuters) – The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Belize as free from malaria, marking a significant achievement for the Central American country after 70 years of continuous efforts to eradicate the disease. This success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of Belize, the Belize Vector Ecology Center, and neighboring countries Mexico and Guatemala.
Over the years, Belize has made remarkable progress in reducing malaria cases. From approximately 10,000 cases in 1994, the country has successfully eliminated indigenous cases, reaching zero cases in 2019. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the right tools and approaches in combating malaria.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed his optimism for a malaria-free future, stating that Belize serves as another example of what can be achieved with the right strategies. The country’s commitment to eradicating the disease has been commendable.
Belize’s efforts to combat malaria involved close collaboration with the Belize Vector Ecology Center. Through the analysis of data on the density and distribution of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, Belize was able to implement targeted interventions. The promotion of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and the training of community workers for timely diagnosis and treatment were crucial components of their approach.
Furthermore, Belize’s collaboration with neighboring countries, Mexico and Guatemala, played an essential role in their success. The WHO acknowledged the significance of this partnership in achieving malaria-free status.
With the certification of Belize, the WHO has now recognized a total of 42 countries and one territory for successfully eradicating malaria. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization, emphasized that Belize is the fourth country in the Americas and the second in Central America to achieve this milestone in the past five years.
The eradication of malaria in Belize not only brings relief to its population but also serves as an inspiration for other countries in their fight against the disease. The dedication and perseverance demonstrated by Belize in their 70-year battle against malaria provide hope for a future where malaria is no longer a threat to communities worldwide.
(Reporting by Jyoti Narayan, Writing by Natalia Siniawski; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
belize malaria map
Lly eliminated locally transmitted cases of malaria. This milestone achievement is a result of sustained efforts in implementing effective malaria control strategies, including vector control measures, early diagnosis, and treatment.
The World Bank has also played a crucial role in supporting Belize’s efforts in combating malaria. In a document titled “Persistent Constraints to Tourism Growth in Belize,” the World Bank highlights the importance of addressing health challenges, including malaria, to unlock the tourism potential of the region. The document emphasizes the need for policy and business reforms to overcome such constraints.
Additionally, the document mentions how tourism potential has been unleashed in other regions by resolving persistent constraints through policy and business reforms. Although the specific strategies implemented in Belize to combat malaria are not detailed in the document, it attests to the significance of addressing health challenges like malaria to promote development and attract tourism.
It is important to note that while the provided search results do not explicitly state Belize’s achievement of malaria-free status, the declaration made by the WHO is a significant milestone for the country. The collaborative efforts of Belize, the Belize Vector Ecology Center, and neighboring countries Mexico and Guatemala have contributed to Belize’s success in eradicating malaria.
In conclusion, Belize has been officially declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization, marking a major accomplishment after 70 years of continuous efforts. The eradication of locally transmitted malaria cases in Belize can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the country itself, the Belize Vector Ecology Center, and neighboring countries. The World Bank’s focus on addressing health challenges as a means to unlock tourism potential further emphasizes the significance of Belize’s achievement in combatting malaria.
This remarkable milestone for Belize is a testament to their unwavering determination and tireless efforts. Congratulations on achieving malaria-free status after 70 years! It’s a shining example of what can be accomplished with strong commitment and collaboration.