Call to create unified front for combating malaria

Stakeholders emphasise need for amplifying malaria control, elimination efforts

ISLAMABAD:

Stakeholders from various government and foreign humanitarian agencies converged on Friday to emphasise the critical need for amplifying malaria control and elimination efforts and enhancing awareness across Pakistan.

The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination (MoNHSR&C), in collaboration with the Common Management Unit (CMU) for AIDS, TB, and Malaria, and the World Health Organisation (WHO), observed World Malaria Day 2024 under the banner of the global theme, "Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world: Gender, Health Equity, and Human Rights."

Special Secretary of the MoNHSR&C, Syed Waqar Ul Hassan underscored the persistent public health challenge posed by malaria, particularly exacerbated by the aftermath of the 2022 floods. He called for a unified front involving policymakers, civil society entities, UN agencies, NGOs, communities, and healthcare providers to tackle this ongoing threat effectively.

Dr Razia Kaniz Fatima, National Coordination for Coordination Management Unit, AIDS, TB, and Malaria, detailed CMU's collaborative efforts with the Global Fund, and the Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN) in delivering cost-free malaria prevention, diagnostic, and treatment services across over 5,500 healthcare facilities in remote regions of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh.

Supported by the Global Fund, over 11.1 million suspected cases were tested for malaria, with 2.6 million confirmed cases successfully treated last year. Additionally, 6.1 million insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) were distributed in 20 high-burden districts, underscoring the significance of innovative strategies and expanded preventive measures.

Dr Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative Pakistan, reiterated WHO's steadfast commitment to combating malaria and backing initiatives aimed at a malaria-free Pakistan. He praised the swift response of national and provincial programmes in addressing malaria outbreaks during floods, showcasing an informative video outlining the historical context of malaria in the region.

Dr Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, highlighted malaria's profound impact on individuals, families, and communities, urging heightened political and social dedication to alleviate its toll. He commended the relentless dedication of healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and communities worldwide in the ongoing battle against malaria.

As Pakistan marks World Malaria Day 2024, the nation reaffirms its resolute determination and collaborative spirit in combating malaria, inching closer towards the shared goal of a malaria-free Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 27^th, 2024.