MALARIA, along with TB and HIV, is one of the major global diseases. It is a mosquito-borne communicable disease affecting many regions worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized 44 countries as malaria-free.
Malaria has been a deadly disease for humans since prehistoric times, causing many deaths annually. The Anopheles mosquito, which carries the malaria parasite, is found in water-rich areas worldwide. These mosquitoes thrive in both early and late monsoon periods, contributing to the increase in malaria cases. People often associate malaria outbreaks with jungles and natural water sources, where these mosquitoes breed. With around 2,000 mosquito species globally, Anopheles remains the primary carrier of the malaria virus, affecting populations in various regions, particularly during monsoon seasons when the disease is most prevalent.
In 2022, WHO estimated that 249 million people worldwide were affected by malaria, resulting in approximately 608,000 deaths. Of these, 580,000 cases were in Africa, representing 94 per cent of global malaria cases. The mortality rate is highest among children under five, who account for 80 per cent of malaria-related deaths. Despite WHO’s goal to eradicate malaria, efforts to control the disease are hindered by challenges such as climate change, financial crises, and other factors.
Myanmar’s Ministry of Health reports that around 500,000 people contract malaria annually. While malaria cases and fatalities significantly decreased between 2012 and 2020, the unexpected COVID-19 outbreak hindered malaria control efforts, impacting progress in combating the disease.
Malaria poses a serious threat to human health, making it crucial to prevent the reproduction of Anopheles mosquitoes to reduce outbreaks. Myanmar’s Ministry of Health runs annual campaigns to eliminate malaria and remove environments that foster mosquito breeding. Cleaning up debris in communities helps control malaria and other infectious diseases. Additionally, using mosquito nets day and night is essential for protection against mosquito bites, contributing to a safer, malaria-free environment for everyone.
To effectively control malaria, everyone must participate in activities like sanitation, ensuring proper water flow, spraying homes, and using embrocation against mosquitoes. Both adults and children should be vigilant in preventing mosquito-borne malaria. While malaria may never be completely eradicated, continuous efforts are essential to control its spread and protect lives within the community. Even if the country controls outbreaks of malaria to some extent, healthcare standards to fight against malaria will improve the socioeconomic life of the people.
