As per reports on June 6, 2019, the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) has came out with estimates of the number of malaria cases to be dipped 50 per cent in 2018 compared to 2017. As per the surveillance data, the malaria cases declined by between 10 per cent and 85 per cent in 2018 barring Himachal Pradesh, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, and Lakshadweep. Globally, India is among five nations that account for nearly half of all malaria cases, others being Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Uganda.
Malaria is a disease caused by microscopic parasites. These parasites infect mosquitoes, which then transmit them to humans through a bite. The infection is characterised by chills, muscle pain, cough, fever, fatigue, headache, shivering, chest pain, vomiting, etc. If not treated timely, it may lead to organ failure, anaemia, breathing problems, low blood sugar, etc.
Strategies Used to Lower Malaria Cases
First of all, the test-treat-track strategy was adopted, which helped a lot in reducing malaria cases tremendously over the past three years. In this strategy, health workers used a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) to test everyone suffering from fever due to malaria. They then gave proper medication and followed up to make sure that the treatment was continued, as per senior scientists at National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR) of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Besides, indoor residual sprays were used to kill mosquitoes and the 50 million long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were distributed in about 80 per cent cases in eight endemic states. Awareness among people also played a significant role.
Decline in Malaria Cases
India saw a 24 per cent decline in malaria cases with Odisha showing a staggering decline of 80 per cent in 2017 whereas the number of malaria cases globally increased by two million, as per the World Malaria Report 2018. The report uses data from the government’s surveillance system and extrapolates it to estimate the number of malaria cases. The report also includes patients who seek treatment at private hospitals and do not get reflected in the government data.
However, there are several challenges in reaching zero indigenous transmission. For further tracking of the cases, more strengthened surveillance system and more manpower are needed at state level. Currently, 15 states, where caseload is low, are under consideration for the sub-national elimination of malaria.
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