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Malaria Cases Dip By 50 Per Cent In 2018; Indicates Success Of Malaria Eradication Programme In India
Strategies used to bring the number of cases down were indoor residual sprays and distribution of 50 million long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). (representation image)
The number of malaria cases in India has reduced by half in 2018 when compared to the previous year, indicating that the malaria elimination programme is successful in the country, the Hindustan Times reports.
The number of malaria cases reported in the country dropped from 9.6 million in 2017 to 5.1 million cases in 2018, estimates from the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) revealed. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare programme aims to eliminate malaria and has set a target of zero indigenous cases by 2027.
“The new report will show a decline of around 50% in the number of cases and an even sharper decline in mortality. This can be attributed to the use of the very clear evidence-based interventions, especially insecticidal nets,” additional secretary from the health ministry Manoj Jhalani said,
The rapid decline in cases is believed to be because of the test-treat-track strategy. Health workers use the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) to test people with fever for malaria, and diagnose appropriate medicines and follow-up to ensure treatment is completed, Dr Anup from the National Institute of Malaria Research said.
Other strategies used were indoor residual sprays and distribution of 50 million long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). Commitment from political leaders, health sector officials and the increase in the awareness among people have also helped the number to decrease, the report added
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