Malaria: Africa Carries the Largest Burden

(HN, April 25, 2010) - In a major stocktaking report issued to coincide with Malaria Day today, experts conclude that the African continent disproportionately carries the lion's share of malaria cases.

In 2008, there were about 850,000 deaths due to malaria, and about 89 percent occurred in Africa. Approximately one in every six child deaths in Africa is due to malaria, according to Roll Back Malaria 2010 Africa Update.

The good news is that the global commitment to control malaria remains strong: in 2009 global funding reached nearly $1.7 billion, up from $0.3 billion in 2003. However an estimated $6 billion will be needed in 2010 alone for all targets to be met.

Insecticide treated mosquito nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying are the most common and effective ways to protect children from malaria, along with preventative measures such as controlling common breeding sources such as standing water. Experts say the good news is that most African-endemic countries hace adopted national plans to roll back malaria - such as monthly distribution plans for the nets.

"These efforts are already demonstrating a clear impact on the lives of people at risk of malaria in many countries and areas," the Roll Back Malaria report says. It adds that global production of ITNs has increased five-fold since 2004, rising to 150 million in 2009. The UN Children's Fund - UNICEF - is the largest global procurer of the nets.

Use of ITNs by children in 25 African countries with trend data averaged 22 percent in 2008, which is a major increase from the mere two percent recorded in 2000. Zambia and Sao Tome & Principe have the highest net coverage (62 and 61 percent respectively), while Swaziland, Cameroon and Guinea have the lowest at four percent.

In a statement issued to coincide with World Malaria, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said: "With commitment and resources, we can eradicate malaria and achieve all of our global development objectives." Two years ago, Ban called for malaria prevention and treatment programs to be made universally available to at-risk populations by the end of 2010.