On December 14, 2010 the WHO issued its World Malaria Report 2010. The report shows a significant decrease in malaria burdens, particularly in African countries. Between 2000 and 2009, eleven African nations have reduced confirmed malaria cases by more than 50%. These reductions resulted in 19 million fewer malaria cases in 2009 compared to 2005, and approximately 200,000 fewer deaths compared to 2000.
According to the report, the main reason for the reductions is increased funding, which reached its highest level in 2010. As a result, more people now have higher access to mosquito nets and preventative treatment.
Substantial improvement in effectively diagnosing and treating malaria has also been made. There has been an increase of diagnostic tests administered to detect suspected malaria cases. Eleven African countries are also now able to provide antimalarial treatment for 100% of malaria cases in the public sector.
However, international funding for malaria leveled-off at 1.8 billion between 2009 and 2010. Though funding will continue to be a challenge, the significant gains are promising, and it is critical that the international community ensure funding to meet malaria control targets, including the Millennium Goals by 2015.
-Martina Georgieva
SOURCE: The WHO
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