Vietnam eliminates malaria in 46 cities and provinces

>> Two imported cases of severe malaria detected in Ho Chi Minh City

>> Vietnam aims to eliminate malaria by 2030

The World Health Organization (WHO) annually observes World Malaria Day on 25 April to highlight community commitment and global solidarity towards the common goal of a malaria-free world. WHO aims to reduce the number of malaria cases by at least 90% by 2030.

According to WHO, malaria is a disease that can be fatal. It is caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes.

Photo: VNA/TsVN

In response, Vietnam adopted the theme of concerted efforts to eliminate malaria this year, aiming to improve access to health services for malaria prevention and control.

According to D.^R. Hoang Dinh Can, director of the National Institute of Malaria, Parasitology and Entomology (NIMPE) of the Vietnamese Ministry of Health, recorded 448 cases of malaria last year, a 97.3% decrease from 2011. During the same period, a severe form of malaria was observed. morbidity and mortality from the disease decreased by 89.19% and 85.71%, respectively.

Although Vietnam has reduced the number of malaria cases to less than 500 cases per year, its prevention and control efforts still face many challenges.

In addition to the country’s tropical climate, more than six million Vietnamese now live in areas where malaria is endemic and there is evidence of mosquito resistance to insecticides.

To achieve the 2030 goal D.^R. Hoang Dinh Can noted that it is necessary to develop a malaria elimination strategy to mobilize the participation of the entire society and use local budgets to replace financial assistance.

It recommended, among other things, strengthening appropriate communication efforts, training of involved personnel, maintaining monitoring and reporting systems, and the use of information technology.

VNA/KVN