World Malaria Day – Update (April, 2023)

Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, which is spread to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite being preventable and treatable, malaria continues to affect millions of people around the world, particularly those in sub-Saharan Africa. This is why World Malaria Day is observed annually to raise awareness and promote action towards the prevention and control of the disease.

Observing World Malaria Day

World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25th to remind people around the world about the dangers of malaria and the need to take action. This day aims to increase awareness about malaria, promote prevention measures, and encourage research into new treatments and vaccines for the disease. It also aims to celebrate the progress made in the fight against malaria and to focus on areas where more needs to be done.

Malaria Transmission

Malaria is transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes, primarily the female ones. The Plasmodium parasite is spread to humans when an infected mosquito bites them, and the parasite enters their bloodstream. This leads to the development of malaria, a potentially life-threatening disease that can cause fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, anemia, and in severe cases, organ failure, and death.

Risk Factors for Malaria

Malaria affects nearly half of the world’s population, and an estimated 247 million people contracted malaria in 2021. Approximately 619,000 people died from the disease in the same year. Pregnant women, infants, children under 5 years of age, and HIV/AIDS patients are particularly at risk. Migrants, mobile populations, and traveler groups are also vulnerable groups since they have not acquired partial immunity from long-term exposure to the disease or are not taking chemopreventive therapies.

History of World Malaria Day

Africa Malaria Day is an event observed by African governments since 2001. In 2007, at the 60th session of the World Health Assembly, the World Health Organisation (WHO) proposed that Africa Malaria Day be changed to World Malaria Day. This day helps to identify the existence of malaria in countries worldwide and brings awareness among people globally to fight against malaria.

Goal of World Malaria Day

The goal of World Malaria Day is to take action to control the deadly disease. Through prevention measures such as mosquito nets, insecticide spraying, and education on the use of protective clothing, people can protect themselves from mosquito bites and reduce the spread of malaria. Medication is also available to treat malaria, making it both preventable and curable.

World Malaria Day 2023

World Malaria Day 2023 will be marked under the theme “Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement”. The focus will be on how to maximize the impact of tools and strategies to reach out to marginalized populations. This theme will help to create awareness about malaria, its prevention, and treatment options, and encourage people to take action towards achieving zero malaria.

Month: Current Affairs – April, 2023