Key Phases and Efforts in Malaria Control by WHO
The fight against malaria is indeed a good example of the WHO’s work, showcasing its efforts in global health coordination, technical guidance, and public health interventions. The WHO has been deeply involved in malaria control and eradication efforts, particularly since the mid-20th century.
1. Global Malaria Eradication Campaign (1955-1969)
– Launch and Ambitions: The WHO launched the Global Malaria Eradication Campaign in 1955, aiming to eliminate malaria worldwide through widespread use of insecticides (such as DDT) and antimalarial drugs.
– Initial Successes: The campaign saw initial successes in regions with robust health infrastructure and where malaria transmission was not highly intense. Countries like Sri Lanka and Italy managed to reduce malaria cases significantly.
– Challenges and Setbacks: The campaign faced challenges such as insecticide resistance, logistical difficulties, and lack of sustained political and financial support. By 1969, it became clear that eradication was not feasible in many parts of the world, leading to a shift towards control rather than eradication.
2. Transition to Malaria Control (Post-1969)
– Focus on Control: After the formal end of the eradication campaign, the WHO shifted its focus to controlling malaria through integrated vector management, improved diagnostics, treatment protocols, and the development of new tools.
– Development of Policies and Guidelines: The WHO developed standardized treatment guidelines, promoted the use of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), and supported the development of artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs).
3. Roll Back Malaria Partnership (1998-Present)
– Partnership and Coordination: In 1998, the WHO, along with UNICEF, UNDP, and the World Bank, launched the Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership. This initiative aimed to provide a coordinated global response to malaria and to mobilize resources.
– Significant Progress: Through RBM, the WHO has helped to significantly reduce malaria incidence and mortality rates globally. This progress has been achieved through increased funding, improved diagnostics, distribution of ITNs, indoor residual spraying, and access to effective treatments.
Key Actors in Malaria Control
1. World Health Organization (WHO)
– Leadership and Coordination: The WHO has played a central role in setting global policies, providing technical guidance, and coordinating international efforts against malaria.
– Research and Development: The WHO has supported research into new diagnostics, treatments, and preventive measures, including the development of malaria vaccines.
2. National Governments
– Implementation of Policies: National governments are crucial in implementing WHO guidelines and policies at the country level. They conduct surveillance, carry out vector control measures, and ensure the distribution of treatments and preventive tools.
– Health Infrastructure: Building and maintaining health infrastructure to support malaria control efforts is a key responsibility of national governments.
3. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Civil Society
– Program Implementation: NGOs and civil society organizations often implement malaria control programs, provide community education, and support local health systems.
– Advocacy and Funding: These organizations also play a role in advocating for increased funding and political commitment to malaria control.
4. International Organizations and Partnerships
– Roll Back Malaria Partnership: This partnership has been instrumental in coordinating global efforts and mobilizing resources for malaria control.
– Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria: The Global Fund provides significant financial resources for malaria control programs worldwide.
5. Research Institutions and Academia
– Scientific Research: Research institutions and universities conduct vital research on malaria biology, epidemiology, and new interventions.
– Training and Capacity Building: These institutions also help in training health professionals and building capacity in malaria-endemic countries.
Conclusion
The WHO’s efforts in malaria control exemplify its role in global health coordination, policy development, and technical support. The fight against malaria has involved a broad coalition of actors, including international organizations, national governments, NGOs, research institutions, and communities. This multi-faceted approach has led to significant progress in reducing the burden of malaria worldwide, although challenges remain in achieving complete eradication.
