The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that malaria deaths reached almost 600,000 in 2023, marking the fifth consecutive year of rising cases. The report highlights biological threats such as drug and insecticide resistance, climate disasters, and humanitarian crises, which hinder control efforts.
According to the WHO, there were 263 million cases of malaria globally last year, with 94% occurring in Africa. Officials cited a $4.3 billion annual funding shortfall, citing additional challenges such as the spread of an insecticide-resistant mosquito species and genetic mutations that stop tests from working.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the need for increased investment and action in African countries with high malaria rates. However, only half of those at risk slept under insecticide-treated nets, and 45% of pregnant women received recommended preventive therapy.
The climate crisis is exacerbating the issue, increasing extreme weather events that create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and disrupt healthcare access. Meanwhile, British health officials reported a surge in imported malaria cases in travelers returning to the UK, with 2,106 cases in 2023, up 26% from the previous year.
A separate report predicts that Africa will see over 550,000 additional deaths from malaria between 2030 and 2049 due to extreme weather events. However, there are grounds for optimism, including the introduction of malaria vaccines in 17 countries and the development of new bed nets made more effective against resistance. The WHO has certified 44 countries as free of malaria, with some reporting fewer than 10 cases a year.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2024/dec/11/global-health-deaths-malaria-rise-drug-insecticide-resistance-climate-crisis-funding-un