April 25 – World Malaria Day with the motto “Achieving the goal of zero malaria”
Every year, on April 25, we mark World Malaria Day. This date was set by the WHO Member States at the 2007 World Health Assembly. The purpose of this event is to highlight the need for continued investment and support for political commitment to malaria prevention and control. The generic of this year’s event is “Achieving the goal of zero malaria.”
Malaria, a disease caused by the malarial plasmodium and transmitted through the mosquito bite Anopheles, which can be prevented and treated, continues to have a devastating impact on the health and well-being of people around the world. Since 2000, global efforts to combat malaria have prevented millions of illness and death – proof that progress is possible.
According to the latest World Malaria Report, published on November 30, 2020, there were 229 million cases of malaria in 2019, compared to 228 million cases in 2018. The estimated number of deaths caused by malaria was 409,000 in 2019 , compared to 411,000 worldwide in 2018.
The geographical location and climatic conditions place the Republic of Moldova among the countries with an increased risk for malaria invasion. Following the monitoring of mosquito populations Anopheles in the country’s ecosystems during 2019, 9 species were identified, of which 6 are important vectors of pathogens, including the malarial plasmodium.
Thus, the presence of the specific vector in the country is a risk factor for public health in that it can transmit the causative agent of malaria. This fact has become particularly important against the background of the phenomenon of intense migration of the citizens of the republic, including in the endemic areas of malaria. In the presence of the vector (mosquitoes) this fact endangers the status of a malaria-free country. In the years 2018-2020 in Moldova there were 1, 3 and 2 cases of malaria, respectively, all being imported.
By its significance, World Malaria Day encourages governments’ commitments to protect health through efforts to eliminate the danger of this disease, with increased attention being paid to the population migrating to endemic areas of malaria.
It is important to note that:
– Malaria is a life-threatening parasitic disease, transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes;
– Travel from the European region to the endemic countries of malaria requires the administration of prophylactic treatment;
– Clinical manifestations characteristic of malaria may occur one week after arrival in the endemic country and up to two years after leaving it;
– The disease can be prevented and treated;
– If you suspect disease, seek medical attention.
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