ISLAMABAD, Apr 25 (APP): The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on all partners to intensify efforts to prevent a resurgence of malaria in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for coordinated and sustained action across all sectors.
On the occasion of World Malaria Day, observed on April 25, the WHO highlighted that Pakistan reported approximately 1.6 million malaria cases in 2023, a significant increase from previous years, according to the WHO Global Malaria Programme. The country has made progress in malaria control, but challenges remain, including climate change, population movement, and weak health systems.
The WHO Representative in Pakistan, Dr. Palitha Mahipala, stated, 'We must work together to ensure that every person at risk of malaria has access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.' The WHO recommends a comprehensive approach, including distribution of insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and prompt treatment of confirmed cases.
Pakistan's National Malaria Control Programme, with support from the Global Fund and other partners, has been implementing these interventions. However, funding gaps and operational challenges persist, particularly in high-burden districts like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The WHO urges all partners, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international donors, to renew their commitment to ending malaria in Pakistan. The goal is to reduce malaria incidence and mortality by at least 90% by 2030, in line with the global malaria technical strategy.
