An Overview of Malaria

Malaria is an infectious disease that poses serious health risks and can often be fatal. It is primarily caused by a type of parasite.

• The disease is triggered by the Plasmodium parasite and is spread to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.
• Malaria is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions, with a significantly lower prevalence in temperate climates.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of malaria can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include fever, chills, and headaches, while severe symptoms encompass fatigue, confusion, seizures, and respiratory difficulties.
• Malaria Parasites: Of the five species of Plasmodium parasites that can infect humans, Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax are considered the most dangerous.
  • P. falciparum is the most widespread and deadly malaria parasite in Africa.
  • Outside of sub-Saharan Africa, P. vivax is the most commonly found malaria parasite.
  • Other species that can infect humans include P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. knowlesi.

Learn more about the World Malaria Day in the linked article.

The Process of Malaria Elimination Certification

• The WHO is responsible for certifying a country as malaria-free, a recognition that is formally announced.
• To earn this certification, a country must demonstrate that it has successfully disrupted the chain of malaria transmission via Anopheles mosquitoes for at least three consecutive years.
• Additionally, the country must prove that it possesses the necessary capabilities to prevent the re-establishment of transmission.
• The independent Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification provides recommendations to the WHO Director-General, who then makes the final decision on the issuance of a malaria-free certification.
• To date, the WHO has certified 41 countries and one territory, including 21 countries in the European Region, as malaria-free.