malariacontrol

Malaria control is a set of public health measures aimed at reducing malaria transmission and the disease burden caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. The objective is to lower morbidity and mortality and, in some settings, to interrupt transmission, while strengthening health systems and communities.

Vector control and environmental management are central. The most widely used tools are long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS). Larval source management and habitat modification can reduce mosquito breeding in certain settings. Coverage, quality, and resistance monitoring are essential for effectiveness.

Prevention and chemoprevention target high-risk groups. Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) delivers antimalarial drugs to children during high-transmission seasons in parts of Africa. Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) and, in some contexts, intermittent preventive treatment in infants (IPTi) protect vulnerable groups. Vaccines, notably RTS,S/AS01 (Mosquirix), have been implemented in select areas to reduce clinical malaria in children.

Diagnosis and treatment rely on rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) or microscopy to confirm infection, followed by effective treatment. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria; severe cases require parenteral administration and supportive care.

Surveillance, monitoring and evaluation, supply chains, and community engagement are essential components, enabling data-driven decisions and timely response to outbreaks. Regional and cross-border collaboration helps address transmission dynamics that cross borders.

Global malaria control faces challenges such as emerging resistance to insecticides and antimalarial drugs, financing gaps, health system constraints, climate variability, and population displacement. Progress is uneven, with significant gains in some regions and persistent transmission in others. The field continues to evolve with vaccines, new drugs, and targeted vector-control methods.