Every year, April 25 is observed as World Malaria Day, with the aim of raising awareness about the impact of malaria and promoting efforts to prevent and control the disease. This year’s theme, ‘Draw the Line Against Malaria’, underscores the urgent need to intensify malaria control measures and accelerate progress towards the goal of ending malaria for good.
Unfortunately, recent news reports have highlighted a disturbing trend: malaria cases are spiking in Pakistan and Malawi, in the aftermath of the climate-induced floods. The link between climate change and malaria is well established — rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns can create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which transmit the disease. WHO says last year flooding in Pakistan has now led to a four-fold rise in cases to a staggering 1.6 million. The situation has dampened hopes of fighting against the disease and has pushed back scientific breakthroughs with the disease intensifying in vulnerable countries. These outbreaks serve as a stark reminder of the devastating toll that climate change can take on public health, particularly in low-income countries. They also underscore the need for urgent action to address both the root causes of climate change and the immediate health impacts of climate-driven disasters.
To combat malaria and protect vulnerable populations in Pakistan from the disease, a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes increased investment in malaria prevention and control measures, such as insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying, as well as improved access to medical facilities and effective treatments. The government must also be proactive in procuring and providing cheap vaccines to the affected. In addition, efforts to address the root causes of climate change and build resilience to its impacts are essential to prevent future outbreaks of malaria and other vector-borne diseases. Following World Malaria Day, let us draw the line against malaria and commit to taking action to end this preventable disease.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 26th, 2023.
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