Aiming for malaria elimination is not an easy task. The problem of transmission must be prevented at all costs. This is possible by developing vaccines, drugs, and improved vector control interventions. The disease is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium falciparum. In addition to vaccines, improved vector control interventions also help control the spread of malaria. In developing countries, it is not yet possible to eradicate the disease with these measures alone.
A successful malaria elimination strategy must be backed by an effective health system. It must be able to capture hard-to-reach populations and provide timely and reliable data. The framework must be complemented with robust and rigorous surveillance and eradication plans. In addition, advocacy and funding are vital components of a national and regional elimination strategy. Here are some tips for the effective implementation of malaria elimination strategies: (i) Develop a malaria risk map.
Developing a surveillance system is an essential component of malaria elimination. Passive case detection at health facilities may not be sufficient. Therefore, effective elimination strategies should include active searches of individuals suspected of being infected or close contacts of people with malaria. This way, people with contact history of malaria can be identified and tested. This makes surveillance a central element of any malaria campaign. Consequently, surveillance should be as important as any other intervention.
Political declarations and policies are essential elements of a successful malaria eradication program. Inclusion of evidence into policy is crucial. Inclusion of malaria within a larger global health agenda will strengthen health systems and surveillance. Research and advocacy will also be important components of a successful elimination strategy. Aiming for Malaria elimination is a challenging goal, but it is a worthwhile goal. The global community is committed to achieving this goal, but it will take many years to achieve this.
The success of a malaria elimination programme depends on the availability of adequate training and capacity building. There are several signals in country grants to strengthen malaria control programmes. Entomologists, doctors, and national health authorities should be trained in malaria prevention and control. They should be able to identify the symptoms of malaria in the most effective way. In addition, they should also be able to detect and track infections. An effective elimination strategy should be based on accurate information and reliable surveillance.
Achieving malaria elimination requires a robust health system and innovative strategies. A successful elimination program must be integrated into the overall health agenda and incorporate the findings of research and evidence into policy. It should be implemented in a country’s entire region to be sustainable. For example, a good implementation of the plan will involve the integration of malaria into other health programs. A strong health system will be essential to preventing the disease and eradicating it.
