World Malaria Day

Today is designated as World Malaria Day. Every year on April 25, people throughout the world observe this day to appreciate the efforts being made to combat malaria. It is an opportunity to emphasise the requirement for ongoing financial support and political commitment to malaria prevention and control. During the 2007 World Health Assembly, WHO Member States established World Malaria Day. Time to deliver zero malaria: Invest, innovate, implement is the theme for this year. The parasites that cause malaria infect female Anopheles mosquitoes, which bite humans to spread the disease. It may be avoided and treated. High fever, chills, headaches, and other flu-like symptoms are among the signs of malaria.

Between 2015 and 2022, India saw a fall in malaria cases of almost 85.1% and a reduction in fatalities of 83.36 %. According to Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health, India was the only high-burden nation in Southeast Asia to record a decrease in malaria incidence in 2020 compared to 2019. This was mentioned by him yesterday in New Delhi during his virtual speech to the Asia Pacific Malaria Leaders Conclave 2023. According to Dr. Mandaviya, the nation is moving quickly towards its goal of eradicating malaria by 2030. Malaria, according to him, is not just a problem for public health, but also a social, economic, and political one that needs the support of all parties involved.

The Union Health Minister emphasised how India has become a global leader for its efforts to eradicate malaria. He continued by saying that the government's numerous health programmes, such as Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, have a significant positive impact on India's ability to battle disease. In keeping with India's G20 Presidency motto of "One Earth, One Family, One Future," the Minister also stated that New Delhi is dedicated to share its resources, expertise, and lessons learned with other nations in their effort to eradicate malaria.