Great news! Cape Verde has officially been certified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as malaria-free, marking a major win in the global battle against the disease. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva expressed immense joy at this "historic moment," emphasizing the positive impact not only on public health but also on the country's tourism, a crucial source of income.
Cape Verde, an archipelago of 10 islands in the central Atlantic Ocean, overcame severe malaria epidemics through targeted interventions. This achievement makes it the third African nation, following Mauritius and Algeria, to be declared malaria-free.
Malaria is a serious threat in Africa, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. The WHO reported that in 2022, the disease claimed 608,000 lives globally and infected 250 million people. Africa bears the brunt, accounting for 95% of cases and 96% of deaths in 2021.
While Cape Verde celebrates its success, there is a reminder that the fight against infectious diseases continues. The WHO issues a certificate of elimination when a country demonstrates three consecutive years of interrupting malaria transmission. However, ongoing investment in the health system is crucial to prevent a resurgence.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stressed the need for sustained efforts, pointing out challenges like mosquito resistance to pesticides. Cape Verde's National Director of Health, Angela Gomes, highlighted the importance of research, community interventions, and awareness to maintain a malaria-free status.
The journey to eliminate malaria began in Cape Verde in 2007, leading to a strategic plan from 2009 to 2013. The focus was on enhanced diagnosis, early treatment, and thorough case reporting. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities remained vigilant, offering free diagnosis and treatment to international travelers and migrants.
Despite this success, the risk of malaria reintroduction remains due to neighboring countries still grappling with the disease. The WHO is now looking beyond traditional methods, adding vaccines to the arsenal. The R21 malaria vaccine has gained pre-qualification status, joining the RTS,S/AS01. While seen as a positive step, experts caution against overreliance on vaccines, emphasizing the importance of existing measures like bed nets and insecticide spraying.
In the words of UNICEF chief Catherine Russell, the inclusion of malaria vaccines in routine immunization programs heralds "a new era in immunization and malaria control." However, it's clear that a comprehensive approach, including various tools and strategies, is essential to continue making strides against malaria and safeguard public health.
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